Why Boko Haram Attacks Continued Amid Peace Talks

Indications have emerged that talks are truly ongoing between the Federal Government and the Boko Haram group, but disagreement in the three departments within the group over the release of the abducted Chibok girls, as well as cooperation with the Federal Government to end insurgency, might have been responsible for renewed attacks in parts of the North-East.

According to Vanguard, while two blocs-the political wing and Jama’atul Ahlus Sunna Lid Da’awatis Jihad, JAS – had agreed to enter into peace deal with the Federal Government and free the girls, the last bloc, loyal to Shekau insisted on the arrest and prosecution of a former governor, whom they claim committed crimes against their members.

The news media cited a security expert involved in FG’s negotiations with the sect, saying that the faction, which has many commanders and fighters were unhappy with government for not arresting and prosecuting the said top politician.

“Let me tell you the truth, some of the JAS and the political wing of Boko Haram had agreed to make peace with the Federal Government and release the Chibok girls to their parents but when those opposed to them learnt of it, they threatened to execute the commanders if they enter into any negotiation with the government,” the source said.

“The renewed violence unleashed on the country today is a reaction of Boko Haram faction opposed to those trying to seal a peace deal with the government in Chad,” Vanguard quoted the source as saying.

The source also said that the Boko Haram leadership was disappointed in the government for continuing to wine and dine with the said politician.

Although, the source did not mention a name, his description suggests the terrorists were referring to former Borno State governor Ali Modu Sheriff, who had for long been suspected to have links with the sect. The former governor had however denied links as many times as he was accused. Several Nigerians have also criticised the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan for of lacking the political will to end insurgency in the country, as they argue people like Sheriff, who are suspected to have links with terror groups should be thoroughly investigated to ascertain their involvement.