PDP In Deadly Silence As Saraki, Tinubu, Atiku Finally Open Up On Chibok Girls

More than 24-hours after the release of 21 out of more than 200 abducted Chibok Girls, the Opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, is yet to react to the cheerful news that has thrown the Chibok Community and Nigerians into a joyful mood.

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, on Thursday evening commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Security Services, the government of Switzerland and the international community for the combined efforts that led to the release of the 21 girls.

“The release of the 21 girls is a testament to the perseverance of our men and women in uniform, the civilian joint task force and a clear indication that this government has been relentless in securing their release.

“Moving forward, we need to ensure that the girls that have been returned to us are re-united with their families and rehabilitated to become full members of our society”, Saraki Said.

Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, via his Twitter handle @atiku, hailed the release of the girls. “I am incredibly happy at this news. A lesson, hope always wins. Prayers for the release of the remaining #ChibokGirls.”

National leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Tinubu, said the release of the 21 Chibok girls came to him as a delightful relief.

Tinubu said: “I congratulate the families of these young ladies who have endured so much anxiety and pain on account of this horrendous experience. I am also grateful that these budding young stars now have the opportunity to again pursue their dreams and aspirations.

“I know there is road to recovery and readjustment ahead, but I am confident that the support of their families, our communities, and the assistance of our many collaborators at home and internationally provide the tools required for this.”

Also, the APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has said that the release of the girls, are indication that the president and the party would keep to all its promises to the Nigeria people.

Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State hailed the release of the schoolgirls.

“I am certain that the recovery of our 21 precious daughters from insurgency only strengthens the resolve of the Buhari administration to continue to work tirelessly until all the girls and all Nigerians abducted are freed,” Shettima said.

The House of Representatives has also expressed happiness over the release of the girls.

Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Honourable Jonathan Gaza, said it was gladdening to hear of the development. Gaza said although the House was yet to review the situation and take a position, “it is certainly good news.”

Honourable Asabe Vilita Bashir, who represents Damboa/Gwoza/Chibok Federal Constituency of Borno State, said they are very happy over the development and hope that the rest of the girls will be released too. Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Mohammed Monguno, described the gesture as a welcome development.