Chad says ceasefire with Boko Haram ‘still on’

Nigeria’s ceasefire negotiation with Boko Haram is still on, an official of the Chadian government has told Reuters.

The truce announced by the Nigerian government on October 17 appears to have broken down with renewed exchange of fire.

But Moussa Mahamat Dago, the No. 2 at Chad’s foreign ministry, told Reuters that the negotiations brokered by the country’s government in N’Djamena were still on.

The insurgents want a prisoner swap, which they had always demanded from the time they claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls in Chibok.

Nigeria is not inclined to a swap deal for the girls, except it would involve non-combatants such as women and children accused of aiding terrorism.

“Quite possibly, those that are fighting are dissidents that even they aren’t able to control. So far, there is no reason for others to doubt this agreement,” he said concerning the renewed crossfire.

He added: “The starting condition of Boko Haram was the liberation of some of their members … That is the compensation.

“We remain optimistic. The two sides agreed to find a negotiated solution and to show their good faith, they already freed some hostages and announced a ceasefire.”

Dago said he had seen a summary of the deal reached in Chad last month, according to Reuters.

TheCable has also reported that the militants are seeking blanket immunity from prosecution for all its members.