Musdapha Ilo, Maiduguri

The Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Emmanuel Kana Mani, says he has absolute confidence that the Nigerian Armed Forces are able to rescue the abducted Chibok school girls and called for cooperation from all Nigerians.

Mani, who is also a retired military officer, told journalists in Borno State that it was wrong for politicians to take advantage of the situation to settle personal scores, stressing that Nigerians must see themselves as one no matter the political, religious or ethnic differences.

He said the call by the House of Representatives for the resignation of the service chiefs would not help matters, insisting that the security operatives should be given the necessary backing to enable them discharge their duties.

The clergyman said Nigerian politicians must stop making provocative and inciting statements and comments for whatever reason and must learn the culture of appreciating security officers who pay the supreme price to protect citizens.

He said, “Calling the security chiefs to resign by the House of Representatives is not the solution to this problem. It will be counter-productive. Generals are not made overnight, neither will you get them from Monday market, Kano Market or Alaba International Market.”
Mani described the act of abducting innocent school girls as callous, heartless, and ungodly.

He said the presidency, National assembly and the security operatives must come together as a matter of national security to do something urgently to bring back the girls alive.

“Let all Nigerians of whatever creed intensify prayer for the survival of the Nigerian state and the release of our daughters. Let us not play politics with security and the lives of our citizens,” he added.