Presidency In talk With Boko Haram??

The Presidency is reported to be in talk with the Boko Haram sect. According to the source, the new deal is being brokered by some confidants of the Presidency, Sect members and  some key commanders of the sect in detention are also eager to be part of the initiative.

The Nation reports the new understanding came amid security reports that about 500 insurgents in a neighboring country are interested in renouncing terrorism  in line with the reconciliatory agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari.
But the President is reportedly being cautious at the new offer from some leaders of the sect to avoid what a source described as the “costly mistakes of the past administration of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.
However, Some mileage gained so far include the following:

1. Likely release of some Chibok girls to underscore the readiness of Boko Haram for negotiation;
2. Involvement of some Boko Haram leaders, on whom the United States Government placed ransom, in the peace deal; and
3. Commitment of the Buhari administration to the negotiation.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said:
“The President’s appeal for peace in the Northeast is yielding dividends because a fresh facilitation of talks between the Presidency and Boko Haram has started.
“This latest negotiation, which is at the preliminary stage, is being promoted by some mutual confidants of the Presidency and Boko Haram.
“The new deal may lead to the release of some Chibok girls to set the tone for a comprehensive negotiation by both sides.”
Responding to a question, the source added:
“The President is extremely cautious on this offer of negotiation.
“Buhari has ordered security agencies to screen or certify those Boko Haram commanders interested in facilitating this latest negotiation to ensure that they are bonafide leaders of the sect.
“The position of the President is that why he is not averse to a peace deal, the Federal Government must avoid the costly mistakes of the past which led to a waste of time and huge resources.
“The President wants the release of the Chibok girls and quick restoration of peace to the Northeast; he is ready to negotiate with the right people for sustainable results.”

Read the full report on The Nation HERE...