As fallout of the resolve of a section of the radical Islamic sect, Boko Haram, to embrace dialogue with the Federal Government, it has emerged that the administration has mandated security agencies to unravel the new sect, known as Jamatul Ansaril Muslima fi Biladis Sudan (JAMBS) which translates to Vanguard for the Aid of Muslims in Black Africa. JAMBS had claimed responsibility for the attack on some Mali-bound Nigerian soldiers, in Kogi State earlier in the year.
According to the Tribune the government was being careful not to enter into a blind negotiation with Boko Haram leaders, while the JAMBS elements would remain potent. The Tribune reported that administration sources also declared that initial investigations had confirmed that JAMBS is a breakaway sect of Boko Haram and that most of its commanders were erstwhile commanders of Boko Haram, who were said to have got disenchanted with the leadership style of Boko Haram leader, Mallam Abubakar Shekau.
The sources also revealed that government had discovered that “JAMBS is affiliated to Alqaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM and that it was formed by former commanders of Boko Haram who disagreed with the leadership style of Abubakar Shekau.” JAMBS is led by Mallam Abu Usamatul Aansari, who is known as the Supreme Leader (or Amir) of JAMBS.
Information in official circles have it that the movement recruits youths between ages 16 and 22. The targeted youths, according to information, are therefore sent for training in armed and unarmed combats as well as terrorist support trainings: “JAMBS capitalised on this to source for funding and training needed for commencement of terrorism acts in the country,” an official communication read.
