Chibok Girls: Negotiations for students might be hindered by Boko Haram split

A top government official said the government has been talking with members of Boko Haram.

The negotiations for the release of the Chibok girls, who have been in the custody of Boko Haram for over two years, might be hindered by the split in the terror group.

The announcement of Abu Musab al-Barnawi as the new leader of the terror group by ISIS created a crack in the terror group.

Despite moves by the Federal Government to secure the release of the Chibok girls, reports say it is being careful.

According to Punch, a top government official said the government has been talking with members of Boko Haram.

 

The source also said “We do not want to make the mistake the past administration made when its negotiation with the sect did not lead to the release of the girls. We are still in a dilemma on which of the two factions should we negotiate with. We must confirm that the offers are genuine.”

Speaking further on the negotiations, the Minister of information, Lai Mohammed said  “The government’s position is clear that we are in touch with them. We are just being careful and cautious to ensure that we are talking to the right people especially with the news that there is a split in the leadership. But what is important is the safety and security of these girls.

“The thrust of my statement (on Sunday) was to assure the nation that we are on top of the situation. We are not even just reacting to the video, we have gone far beyond the video in talking to the group already. Until you are able to ascertain the authenticity of those you are talking to, you don’t go into details.”

The Co-Founder of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) organisation, Oby Ezekwesili threatened that the group will march to the Presidential Villa everyday till the abducted Chibok girls are released.