Reports have emerged that Nigerian authorities maintained a quiet ceasefire with Boko Haram factions for roughly three months, in an alleged arrangement that helped secure the release of 360 civilians earlier abducted from Ngoshe in Borno State.
Sources claimed a ransom of about $3.7 million was involved, a claim the Federal Government has publicly denied.
The reported truce reportedly reduced attacks in the immediate area and may be extended by another 40 days.
Analysts note that any such understanding remains fragile because Islamic State West Africa Province is not part of the reported deal.
Official military operations continue in other parts of the North-East, meaning the reported reduction in violence around the affected area does not necessarily represent a wider halt to insurgent activity.
The government maintains its public position against formal negotiations, while local communities in the affected zone have experienced a temporary drop in violence.
Independent confirmation of the full terms remains limited, leaving key questions around the reported arrangement, including its scope, duration and whether any further extension will take place.
The developments have nevertheless renewed attention on the difficult balance between securing the release of abducted civilians and maintaining the government’s stated position on negotiations with insurgent groups.
