Abstract
Since 2013, Boko Haram has significantly contributed to gendered violence against women. This study examines the experiences of 16 women and girls who lived in the Boko Haram camp from 2014-2018 and had varying levels of engagement in the organization's activities. The study employs a qualitative phenomenological in-depth interview methodology. Semi-structured interviews conducted in Nigeria yielded data on the respondents' experiences before, during, and after their times with Boko Haram. Based on the analysis of interview responses and field notes, several themes emerged. Overall findings suggest that family and community dynamics play a significant role in terrorism in Nigeria. More specifically, early child marriage and the lack of access to education increase girls' vulnerability to abductions by Boko Haram, which, in turn, contributes to involvement in terrorism. Boko Haram members take control over the most disadvantaged and vulnerable victims and, through direct threats or non-consensual marriage, force these women to succumb to their pressure. Respondents reported facing barriers to reintegration into the community, although those with more formal education tended to fare better. These findings are discussed in terms of their implications for future research and counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria.
Highlights
On April 14, 2014, a group of militants known as Boko Haram attacked the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Nigeria, kidnapping 276 schoolgirls
This study aimed to introduce the importance of further exploration of gender within terrorism to understand and prevent the ongoing and escalating violence in Nigeria
The study contributes to the burgeoning scholarly literature on Boko Haram's activities in Nigeria and focuses on the gender-based approach of the organization's strategies
Summary
On April 14, 2014, a group of militants known as Boko Haram attacked the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Nigeria, kidnapping 276 schoolgirls. This incident stirred up a global outcry and increased public awareness of violence against women and girls in Nigeria. With the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls and the continued kidnapping of women and girls, Boko Haram's use of female suicide bombers increased. This development signifies the organization's adoption of a gendered approach towards actualizing its goals (Maiangwa & Agbiboa, 2014). This aspect of terrorism represents a novel but a growing trend (Pape, 2005)
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