“It is understandable that, in the wake of terrorist activity, some are tempted to crack down on anyone and everyone who could theoretically pose some sort of threat”, Kerry said.
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He said that Buhari understood the danger of corruption in a country, and that Nigeria was already a regional leader in the fight against corruption.
Kerry was making reference to the reports of how the Nigerian Military is recapturing escaped Boko Haram detainees for questioning, on suspicion that they are still tied to the extremist group.
“To effectively counter violent extremism, we have to ensure that military action is coupled with a reinforced commitment to values like integrity, good governance, education, compassion, security and respect for human rights”, Mr. Kerry said.
“They also have to offer their citizens an alternative that is better, that offers hope that actually delivers on its promises”, he stressed.
Speaking in sokoto yesterday at the Sultan’s palace, John Kerry decrled that no less than 2.6 billion dollars is been lost to corruption annually globally. The group made global headlines two years ago when it kidnapped more than 200 girls from a school in Chibok. It’s not just a disgrace and a crime. It is also unsafe. Please see our terms of service for more information.
He commended the sultan for his relentless efforts to entrench peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.
The announcement came as the USA secretary of state, John Kerry, arrived in Nigeria and pledged his country’s support in fighting the extremist group, which has killed more than 20,000 people and displaced millions.
According to him, it was important that millions who were displaced in the North-East get the humanitarian and government support that they needed to recover from the trauma.
But Kerry also stressed the need to respect human rights in the crackdown against the militant group.
Kerry “made very, very strong commitments to the (Nigerian) government that we are going to look at what we can do differently”, the official said, adding that the package for the aircraft was still being considered and needed congressional approval.
Kerry said that the USA will partner with Nigeria to open temporary schools where “displaced children are given access to meals, counselling and other social services”.
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The event was witnessed by Governors Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto and and Abdul’aziz Yari of Zamfara state including religious, traditional and community leaders, as well as students.
