Thursday, 29 August 2013

Envoy: US Will Not Investigate Claims of Shekau's Death

29 Aug 2013       
120112T.Imam Abubakar Shekau.jpg - 120112T.Imam Abubakar Shekau.jpg
Boko Haram terrorist, Abu Shekau

Damilola Oyedele in Abuja

The outgoing United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Terrence McCulley, has disclosed that his country has no plans to investigate the claims of the death of wanted Boko Haram terrorist, Abu Shekau, even though the US recently placed a $7 million bounty on his head.
McCulley made this disclosure in Abuja yesterday when he paid a farewell visit to Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, at the ministry's headquarters.
The envoy however noted that the US’ partnership on the war against terrorism in Nigeria and the sub-region would continue.
“We have strongly criticised the violence perpetrated by Boko Haram, we have called for measures targeted at this threat and express our hope that the government of Nigeria will be able to curtail the threat presented by Boko Haram,” he said.
“The US reward for justice programme offers rewards for apprehending terrorism leaders. The United States has been working in helping to counter the violence of extremism in the region and we recognise what Nigeria has done as a regional leader to contain the spread of violence,” McCulley added in appreciation of Nigeria's role in providing stability in the sub-region.
The ambassador noted that the relations between Nigeria and the US have been fruitful and rewarding for both countries.
He lauded Nigeria for still being able to record development in spite of its challenges ranging from insecurity to oil theft and corruption.
Responding, Ashiru said McCulley’s tenure recorded growth in US-Nigeria bilateral relations.             
“For the period you stayed here, the relationship between Nigeria and US has been quite robust and full of activities especially working under the framework of the Bi-national Commission (BNC).
“We are very satisfied with what we achieved under the various segments of the BNC from security, education, investment in power sector, aviation, agriculture, etc,” he said.
 
 
SOURCE: THISDAY

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