Terrorist group, Boko Haram has allegedly asked a local human rights activist and lawyer to start negotiating with the Nigerian government on their behalf.
The move came days after Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari said the UN should intervene and negotiate with the Islamist outfit.
Earlier in September, Buhari said the government was willing to free some detained militants in exchange for the girls, a key demand made by the Islamist outfit. The leader said the government had already tried to engage with negotiations, but ” it became difficult to identify credible leaders.”
Shortly after Buhari’s speech, an audio allegedly made by a Boko Haram member emerged. It is believed the person overheard, which is in Hausa, said barrister Aisha Alkali Wakil should represent the group during negotiations with the government.
Prince Lawal Shoyode, a spokesperson for Barrister Aisha Wakil – and the barrister herself – have since both confirmed to IBTimes UK that Boko Haram had put forward a request. “There are three Boko Haram factions at the moment and all of them have requested to be represented by Barrister Aisha,” he said. He added the first thing that will be negotiated is the release of the Chibok girls.
The Nigerian government and army have not made comments on Boko Haram’s alleged request yet.
