Nigeria to release all kidnapped Women in Boko Haram raids

Nigeria's military said Tuesday that the West African nation would release some of the prisoners it has taken in the country's fight against Islamic extremists — including all the women now held in custody.

The surprise statement from the Defense Ministry, while lacking specifics about how many would be released and when, represents a clear concession by the Nigerian government to the insurgents it is fighting in a military offensive in the nation's restive northeast. The leader of the Islamic extremist network Boko Haram, the main group now fighting the government, repeatedly has mentioned security agencies arresting members' women and children.

In the statement, Brig. Gen. Chris Olukolade said those released would be turned over to state governors for "further rehabilitation." It also mentioned a presidential panel now exploring a possible amnesty deal for insurgents.

"The measure, which is in line with presidential magnanimity to enhance peace efforts in the country, will result in freedom for suspects including all women under custody," the statement read.

The statement, like the others issued by the military since President Goodluck Jonathan declared emergency rule May 14, offered no specifics. Reuben Abati, a presidential spokesman, also could not be reached for comment Tuesday night. ABCNews

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