Presidency reportedly begins negotiating with terrorists

monjola sotubo

July 27, 2015 11:27 AM

The negotiations are said to be currently ongoing between some confidants of the Presidency and insurgent leaders.

President Muhammadu Buhari and Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau

The Nigerian government has reportedly begun talks with leaders of terrorist sect, Boko Haram.

The negotiations are said to be currently ongoing between some confidants of the Presidency and some insurgent leaders, according to The Nation.

President Muhammadu Buhari is however said to be hesitant about the talks due to the “costly mistakes of the past administration of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to The Nation, Buhari has asked security officials to “screen or certify” those involved in the new negotiation to ensure that the government is dealing with the right Boko Haram leaders.

A source 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.”

“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.”

The Presidency had earlier said, through Buhari’s media aide, Femi Adesina, that it would be willing to negotiate with the terrorists from a position of strength.

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Watch video of Buhari's CNN interview below:

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