Terrorism and Armed Conflict in Nigeria: A Case Study of Boko Haram

Abstract

The North-East region of Nigeria has been the epicenter of Boko Haram attacks and killings since 2002. Recently, the group has extended its menace to the North-West and North-Central regions. Compounding the menace of Boko Haram in these regions, are the activities of the Islamic State’s West African Province (ISWAP), a breakaway terrorist group from Boko Haram and the administrative division of the Islamic States (IS). These armed groups’ renewed attacks on helpless Nigerians, facilities, and institutions have worsened the situation in Northern Nigeria, as they attack both public and private facilities, including the civilian populations and objects. The armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other security agencies engage these armed groups, as both parties fight for supremacy. Nigeria is a State Party to some international instruments regulating the conduct of war and human rights. How far have the country and the armed groups respected and observed the rules of these international instruments in their hostilities? This research paper, therefore, examines these situations and evaluates the activities of these armed groups and the responses by the government of Nigeria with a view to determining whether they have reached the threshold of armed conflict. Chapter one examines the evolution and ideology of Boko Haram and defines certain key terms, whilst chapter two deals with the status of Boko Haram under international humanitarian law. Chapter three discusses the effects of the activities of the groups. In chapter four, the paper examines the efficacy of the responses and interventions by the government, international community, and non-governmental bodies, whilst chapter five concludes with some far-reaching recommendations.