The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku has declared that the federal government has never ruled out the option of dialogue with members of the fundamentalist sects, Boko Haram.

While speaking on Channels Television’s breakfast Show; Sunrise Daily, the Minister stated that “you cannot offer amnesty as the first option when no one has come out to discuss with you.”

Mr. Maku while referring to President Jonathan’s statement in Borno state on no amnesty for the sect who members are unknown said, the President didn’t say he won’t grant amnesty but that he is looking forward to see someone who will step out to talk to the government on behalf of the sect.

He further explained that amnesty is usually an outcome of a discussion or negotiation. “How does a leader of a nation whose citizens are being attacked offer amnesty unconditionally or negotiation” he asked.

He added that “amnesty could be part of the solution but it can only come out in the process of dialogue and negotiation but how to offer it unconditionally is not known.”

Mr Maku also emphasized that members of the group have not come out to say they need amnesty.

He however advised that Nigerians not over politicize the issue of amnesty.

http://www.channelstv.com/home/2013/04/02/fg-has-never-ruled-out-dialogue-with-boko-haram-labaran-maku/

Yeah, Federal govt won't dialogue with a faceless group... Boko Haram doesn't want amnesty but 'Islamation' of the northern region and abolishment of anything 'western'. The northen elders and people who want to cash in and 'whiff' amnesty goodies are the ones calling for amnesty for Boko Haram. Don't let us be deceived, nothing good could ever come out of terrorism...