In a thought-provoking address at the launch of Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, former President Goodluck Jonathan unveiled a startling piece of history: Boko Haram insurgents once named former President Muhammadu Buhari as their preferred negotiator for peace talks with the Federal Government. This revelation paints a fascinating picture of the complexities surrounding the ongoing crisis, highlighting Jonathan’s commitment to dialogue during his administration.
Jonathan candidly spoke about the various committees his government established to engage with the extremist group, emphasizing how Buhari’s participation could have led to more fruitful negotiations had he pursued it after taking office in 2015. Yet, the persistence of Boko Haram demonstrates that the situation is “far more complex than often presented,” urging a reconsideration of Nigeria’s approach to this multifaceted challenge.
Reflecting on his own tenure, Jonathan acknowledged his government’s struggles to forge lasting peace, advocating for a balanced “carrot-and-stick” strategy for today’s leadership. He pointed out the alarming sophistication of Boko Haram’s weaponry, suggesting the possibility of external influences behind the insurgency.
The former president poignantly described the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls as a bitter scar on the nation’s conscience, expressing a desire for Boko Haram leaders to one day share their narratives. Drawing from his successful peace efforts in the Niger Delta, he underscored the need for a collaborative approach that merges dialogue, governance, and development with military action to tackle the insurgency head-on.
Praising Gen. Lucky Irabor’s book for its valuable insights, Jonathan stressed the importance of accurately recounting the conflict’s history, believing that understanding the past is vital for creating effective solutions and informing future generations.
