How Red Cross acted as intermediary between Boko Haram and security operatives in release of lecturers, police wives

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitated the handover of the three lecturers of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and 10 women from Boko Haram insurgents to security operatives.

While the women were abducted in June, Boko Haram fighters captured the men in November.

The kidnap took place in Borno state.

In a statement on Saturday, Red Cross said it was contacted to play the role.

“We are so pleased that these 13 people are free and will be able to see their families again,” said Patrick Youssef, deputy regional director for Africa.

“The ICRC was not involved in any negotiations that led to the handover of the 13 people. The armed opposition handed the 13 people over to ICRC representatives who transported them to Nigerian authorities.”

The organisation recalled how it also facilitated the hand over of the Chibok schoolgirls who regained freedom last year.

“This action was similar to what the ICRC did in October 2016 and May 2017, when we transported the released Chibok girls to Nigerian officials,” Youssef said.

“There are many people missing or being held against their will due to the conflict. This creates untold trauma and suffering, including for families across the Lake Chad region who must live with the daily uncertainty and anguish of not knowing the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones. We hope that these people, too, will get to return to their families soon.”

Red Cross expressed its willingness to provide similar humanitarian services in the future when asked by relevant parties to the conflict.