Saraki Hails Release of 82 Chibok Girls

By Dipo Olowookere

The release of additional 82 Chibok girls abducted over three years ago on Saturday has been commended by the Senate President, Mr Bukola Saraki.

Mr Saraki, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Yusuph Olaniyonu, applauded efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government, security operatives, and the international Red Cross on the release.

He said the prayers and well-wishes of Nigerians and the global community had led to the return of “more of our daughters.”

According to him, “As a father, I can’t help but feel delighted and excited at the release of the 82 schoolgirls.”

“When they were taken from us, the whole world joined in demanding for their return – now, it is a testament to the tenacity and commitment of the Federal Government, led by Mr President, that they are bock with us, and will soon be reunited with their families,” he said.

“Last year, we managed to secure the release of 20 girls. Today, (we got) 82. By this feat, those that are still out there should be rest assured that Nigeria will not forget them, and this government will continue to do everything within its power to bring them back home,” Mr Saraki said.

“Moving forward, the security forces must be commended. However, the work is not yet done, too many families are still anxious today. Too many of our daughters have not returned,” he added.

The Senate President reassured that the Senate and by extension, the National Assembly, would continue to do everything within its power to augment the efforts of the executive and our International partners in securing the release of more girls and ending the Book Haram menace once and for all.

“My colleagues and I in the 8th Senate will continue to remain committed to the cause of bringing back all our girls, ending the Boko Haram insurgency and ensuring the rehabilitation of the devastated North East zone,” he said, noting that, “It is clear that we still have a lot to do. But God-willing, we will be up for the challenge.”