The presidency is currently in talks with leaders of the Boko Haram sect for the purpose of calling truce to the 6-year old terrorist attacks.
According to The Nation, the missing 219 Chibok girls could be released if things go according to plan with the Boko Haram sect as the presidency is currently in talks with the leadership of the group. This fresh peace deal has gained acceptance from some detained Boko Haram officials in the prison as well as about 500 fighters of the Boko Haram group in neighbouring countries accepting to lay down their arms.
President Muhammadu Buhari is currently exercising caution in dealing with the representatives of the terror group to prevent the re-occurrence of the mistakes the Jonathan regime made. Buhari has asked security agents to “screen or certify” those spearheading the new negotiation to ensure that the government is dealing with the right Boko Haram leaders.
The presidency has mapped out some demands in the reconciliation plans which include:
- likely release of some Chibok girls to underscore the readiness of Boko Haram for negotiation;
- involvement of some Boko Haram leaders, on whom the United States Government placed ransom, in the peace deal; and
commitment of the Buhari administration to the negotiation.
According to a reliable source in the presidency, the new development is making tremendous progress which will soon be evident in the country. In the words of the source:
“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.”
“ 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.
Boko Haram leader, Imam Abubakar Shekau is yet to be involved in the negotiations.