5 Boko Haram members exchanged for 82 Chibok girls - Negotiator

The federal government swapped five Boko Haram militants for the 82 Chibok schoolgirls.

According to negtiator of the swap deal, the outcome should be seen as “a favourable bargain,” considering what obtained in other climes when it comes to prisoner swap of innocent citizens with suspected terrorists.

The negotiator whose identity was not revealed for security reasons, also allayed fears that the release of the insurgents would pose a serious international security breach.

e expressed optimism that Boko Haram leaders would not pose any threat to national security considering the level of discussions going on among various stakeholders on not only securing the release of abducted persons, but finding lasting solution to the nearly eight-year insurgency.

“One positive aspect of it is that even in the midst of war, if you are talking, that is what people like because you will end up having a peace deal, this is the issue of ‘carrot and stick’ and there is certainty.

“The good aspect of this government is that despite the war, despite the fact that the military had subdued this thing, mediation is ongoing and not long after this, you will begin to hear of rehabilitation and reintegration and other components of peace building,” he said. 

On how the negotiators felt on coming face to face with the deadly Boko Haram commanders for the exchange, he said, “I have the firm belief that it is only when (someone’s time) is due that one would die; and somebody must take the risk and they did.

“And secondly, already trust has been built and mediation does not start and end in one day; this thing started long ago just like what happened in Rwanda that brought lasting peace, and the peace and reconciliation committee in South Africa; these are some of the key elements…I have the belief that I would not die until my appointed time, that is why I went. 

“I can assure that the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration has laid the foundation for lasting solution to the Boko Haram insurgency by opening the doors of conversation. This is not new, it is an acceptable norm all over the world.” he added