Jeep GC Liftgate Wont open

My 97 Jep GC lift gate is stuck closed. it unlocks but will not open when i pull the handle. i have had my hand inside the door and pulled on the rod that is connected to the handle..still nothing. i need to open it so i can fix it. any sugestions please HELP ME......

Your close if you can move the rod. Keep moving it and look for another rod that works the lock.The Lock sometimes dosent always unlock all the way. TRy taking the license plate backing housing off and see if you can access the latch and striker from there.