We Doubt Boko Haram Ceasefire Agreement...Shehu Sanni

A  Nigerian journalist close to Boko Haram Ahmad Salkida, and activist, Shehu Sanni, who had been involved in negotiations with the extremist sect expressed doubt over the ceasefire deal.

Salkida, who doubted the deal on his Twitter page, said, “I guess Nigerians are tired and as such, any news that offers respite on this protracted war between Nigeria and Boko Haram is always welcomed. Sadly, anybody that despises such good news becomes Nigeria’s enemy.

“But the leadership of Boko Haram is said to be miffed that a nation of the size and magnitude of Nigeria, with high level of intelligent people is being easily encased in deceit and nobody seems to be asking tough questions.

“What is most worrying here is that the government at the highest level and intelligence has embraced this ‘good news.’ This shows lack of understanding of the reality that this is an ideology that can only be neutralised after long hard work that has yet to start.

“It also appears that the government is more interested in shadows and bubbles than in substance and clear-headed engagement with the group.”

Sani said his contacts told him Boko Haram members had denied Ahmadu as their representative.

He said on his Twitter page: “All my attempts to confirm the ceasefire deal did not produce any result. My sources are telling me that they don’t know who that person is. For Boko Haram to reach any ceasefire, such information must come from the leader of the group.

“Any statement that is not coming from the leader of the group cannot be said to be credible and will not be complied with by the group members. The leader is the only person they respect and listen to.”