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The United State Secretary of State, John Kerry has commended Nigeria on its military successes against Boko Haram.
However, he advised the Federal Government to include other measures in its crack down on the group.
Speaking in Sokoto, Kerry: “ “Nigeria and its neighbours are degrading Boko Haram’s capabilities.”
He also cautioned against a heavy-handed response and emphasised respect for human rights.
He said:”In the wake of terrorist activity, some are tempted to crack down on anyone and everyone. But, extremism can’t be defeated through repression or fear. Fear instilled through repression invites not confidence but contempt,” Kerry said, adding “it creates terrorists.”
On his third visit to Nigeria in less than two years, Kerry met with traditional and religious leaders, including Sokoto Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar.
Kerry appealed to Nigerians to practise equality and tolerance to “overcome deep-seated ethnic and religious divisions.”
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