Detained women and children of Boko Haram militants to be freed

Kabiru Sokoto's wife

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced in Abuja on Tuesday that it would release some persons detained in connection with terrorist activities.

The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Chris Olukolade, said in a statement that the decision to release the suspected terrorists was based on the directives of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Dr. Jonathan declared state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states on May 14.

The statement said the move was in furtherance of the Federal Government’s position in response to requests by the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Reconciliation.

“The measure which is in line with presidential magnanimity to enhance peace efforts in the country will result in freedom for suspects, including all women under custody.

“The details of the directives and those to benefit from this gesture have been communicated to field units and the Joint Task Force, ‘’ it said.

The statement said that the beneficiaries would be released to the state governors who would be involved in further rehabilitation before the suspects were released to their respective community leaders and relations.

Part of the major issues raised by the Boko Haram in videos made before the State of Emergency declaration was their demand that government forces release all their wives and female relatives in detention.