BOKO HARAM AND CEASE FIRE

The Nigerian Army few days ago announced a cease-fire in the ongoing war against the insurgents, Boko Haram. And truly, the Nigerian fighters obeyed. But only few hours later, Boko Haram militants went to Wukari and Borno to slaughter villagers, abduct 40 women and burnt down some villages. 

With this, many Nigerians are beginning to doubt the integrity of the cease fire, and even the sincerity of the Army. In the light of the fact that Boko Haram insurgents are known not to follow conventional war guidelines, how could they be trusted to obey a cease fire? Again, military experts have also faulted such ceasefire announcement, asking what were the terms for the cease fire, duration and the other party's official statement on the cease fire, not even from the Shekau with "9-lives". There is none as at yet. So it appears, the Nigerian Army unilaterally decided on, and announced a ceasefire. And as expected, the insurgents took advantage of it, killed more and did other havoc. 

However, the Federal Government soldiers had to respond to the attack. Yesterday they killed 25 Boko Haram militants, seized their ammunitions, and took over Damboa in Borno State. 

As it is, the cease fire has broken down. The war is still on, and it is highly doubtable if the negotiation for the release of the abducted Chibok girls would come to fruition this week as expected. Facts emerging from relevant quarters is that there are many factions or groups with the name Boko Haram, and it is improbable that the government is talking to the right leaders of Boko Haram. As it appears, some faction or group is not interested in any talks with the government. It is also alleged that there is a political Boko Haram, a group of politicians who are behind the insurgents and are benefiting from the crisis one way or the other. Of course, such will never want an end to the war despite the fact that lives are lost everyday. 

Whatever the case, the Federal Government has assured severally that all hands are on deck to rescue the girls, and that the fight against terrorism is in full force. The Army has routed the islamists on different grounds and it seems Boko Haram is losing grounds in major parts of the North-East Nigeria where they once held sway.