Boko Haram Leader
The
Nigerian government says it has started informal talks with the Boko Haram
terrorist organization in a bid to try to end deadly attacks by the militant
Islamist group in Nigeria. A presidential spokesman said of the dialogue was
through "backroom channels",
without elaborating further. The group's main faction earlier this week ruled
out peace talks. Boko Haram, which wants to create an Islamic state in Nigeria
is accused of killing hundreds of people and targeting churches and other
targets. "The form of the dialogue is that backroom channels are being
used to reach across with the sole objective of understanding what exactly is
the grievances of these persons are, what exactly can be done to resolve the
crises," presidential spokesman Reuben Abati said. He said this was being
done "in the overall best interest of ensuring peace and stability in
Nigeria and the security of life and property". The spokesman added that
the talks were going on with at least some members. Boko Haram is known to have
several factions. This is the first official government confirmation of
dialogue with the militant group. An earlier attempt at peace talks collapsed
very quickly. The group has so far made no public comments over the latest
revelation of the ongoing attempts towards negotiations
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