The existence of a Cameroonian branch of Boko Haram divides experts

Is there a Cameroonian Boko Haram? This question was a topic of debate in the ranks of the intelligentsia. In its Friday, August 7, 2015 edition, the daily, Emergence, gave the floor to experts who do not agree on the thesis of a local Boko Haram.

According to David Eboutou, political analyst, "the thesis of a Cameroonian Boko Haram is credible." To support his position, he noted: "even though it is inevitable that Boko Haram attacks Cameroon today, the intensity tested on the operational level demonstrates that we are in the presence of a local threat".

For the sociologist Claude Abbé, it is difficult "to think that there is no degree of implantation of the sect in Cameroon."

Eric-Achille Nko'o, political analyst, believes that "this terrorism network thrives within several radical groups such as the Somali Shabaab who themselves were deported to Kenya, the Iraqi group in Syria and now Boko Haram which extends to Cameroon.

For the sociologist Edmond Mballa Elanga VII, there is "indeed a Cameroonian Boko Haram: which is the product of the imagination of some Cameroonians..."I would like that evidence be brought on the existence of the BH with Cameroonian label: wiretapping, documents, images etc. None of this is published, just words and theories that are served on a daily basis".

This logic was also shared by Ahmadou Séhou. The political analyst noted that "the thesis of an internal Boko Haram although is spread and maintained by various groups struggling for power, has so far not given the irrefutable proof of its relevance".

Pr Taguem Fah Gilbert, expert in political studies, argues that "there are actors of Cameroonian origin in the unit of leadership within this organization just as there are some at its bottom." However, they are neither there to represent a particular country nor sell any label.

And for the National president of the Upc Victor Onana, "it is a fact and not a trial and error; Boko Haram is a terrorist organization that originated in Nigeria and that was fought in this country. But Cameroon having a border with Nigeria, has been the victim of this Nebula. Is there any reason in Cameroon today for some to go and take up arms? I do not think so."