In a news conference in Abuja marking the tenth year since the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, Edwin Clark, a prominent figure and Ijaw leader, has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to put together a dedicated taskforce aimed at rescuing the kidnapped schoolgirls from Chibok and other captives.
Clark emphasized the need for the taskforce to lead the rescue mission with bravery and determination, criticizing previous administrations for failing to secure the release of the abducted girls. He urged Tinubu to show boldness in ensuring a comprehensive effort is made to rescue the girls and establish a lasting legacy for his administration.
Pointing out that approximately 90 girls are still in captivity, Clark emphasized the importance of not abandoning any Nigerian citizens in such dire circumstances.
He suggested, “Tinubu should appoint a specialized taskforce consisting of courageous, competent, transparent, and unbiased individuals.” Clark expressed concerns over what he perceived as a lack of seriousness from President Tinubu’s government in the rescue mission for the remaining Chibok girls.
Reflecting on a recent successful hostage rescue operation by the United States, where citizen Mr. Philip Walton was rescued after being held captive between Niger Republic and Nigeria, Clark highlighted Nigeria’s capability to achieve similar feats.
He recalled how former U.S. President Donald Trump personally oversaw the successful rescue, showcasing the commitment of the U.S. government in such operations.