Nigeria, Islamist group Boko Haram in indirect talks

KANO, Nigeria - Agence France-Presse

This file image taken from video posted by Boko Haram sympathizers made available on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2012 shows Imam Abubakar Shekau, the leader of the radical Islamist sect Boko Haram. AP photo

Nigeria's government and Islamist group Boko Haram have been in indirect talks seeking to end deadly violence blamed on the extremists, two sources familiar with the discussions told AFP on Friday.

"There have been preliminary talks between a Boko Haram-appointed intermediary," a senior security official told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that Boko Haram has set out terms for a temporary ceasefire. A diplomatic source said there have been contacts between Nigeria's government and Boko Haram through intermediaries.