TheCable

The Niger state branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has advised the federal government to involve “seasoned, experienced and informed clergymen” to assist in counselling the released Chibok schoolgirls.

Mathias Echioda, CAN chairman in the state, gave the advice in an interview with NAN in Minna, capital of Niger.

Echioda said the call became necessary to help rebuild their morals and lives of the affected girls.

“I appeal to the federal government to involve clergymen that will use their professional based knowledge and faith to counsel the girls,” he said.

“Government should involve seasoned, experienced and informed clergymen to assist in counselling the girls to rebuild their morals and lives.”

He added that the effort would help the girls to overcome the physiological trauma they went through in the hands of their abductors.

Echioda described the release of the girls as a welcome development to Nigerians in particular and the world at large.

“It is a welcome development because it is a miracle that Nigerians and the world have been expecting to happen, long ago. It came at a time when there was no clear knowledge of it coming,” he said.

“Our continuous prayer is that the remaining girls be released and reunited with their loved ones.”

Echioda expressed delight on the dialogue for the release of the remaining missing girls.

“We all know that some parents of these girls died of depression and shock and the 21 girls released will only refresh the wounds on the mind of the parents whose children are still missing,” he said.

“Negotiation does not mean yes immediately or no, it is a diplomacy and a civilised world should negotiate or dialogue, considering certain terms of reference and agreement.”