From Bullets to Handshake: The Dynamics of Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Social Protection and Boko Haram in Nigeria

Abstract

Over the past decade, Boko Haram has continuously launched dastardly attacks in Nigeria, thereby constituting a bane to security. Considered as a threat to national security, the Nigerian government have made attempts to confront the Boko Haram phenomenon with military repression thereby resulting in the extrajudicial killing of members of the group. This use of force has further radicalized the group, thus making its defeat technically distant. Therefore, there is an exigent need to address the menace using non-combative methods. This study argues that social exclusion is a major factor that emboldened the emergence of Boko Haram in Northeast Nigeria as evidenced in the Human Development Index (HDI) of the region. This study, which adopted a qualitative and analytical approach, found out that inequality, the lack of social cohesion, nay, social erosion and social exclusion can be addressed by focusing on social inclusion and social protection. These, the study argues, will be an ultimate weapon and productive countermeasure against Boko Haram in Nigeria. As a result, the study recommends addressing the indicators of social exclusion; engaging with youths, faith-based organizations and religious leaders; and involving civil society organizations (CSOs) in promoting social inclusion and protection.