The role of non-state actors in the fight against of terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria

Abstract

The article examines the role of non-state actors in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria. Relying on secondary data, the history and nature, reasons for emergence, modus operandi, issues and challenges of selected nonstate actors were explored. Group Theory was adopted in attempt to understand this phenomenon. Selected non-state actors were discussed. For example the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) - a formal organisation established to synergize well-meaning individuals and groups within the community to deal with terrorism and insurgency was discussed. In Nigeria the federal and state governments have each endorsed or encouraged the use of non-state actors in their bid to tackle terrorism and insurgency in line with the spirit of community policing. Though the outcome of this has been relatively successful, however, this cooperation has been saddled with sometimes proven allegations of human rights violations and other crimes. Hence, efforts should be made to provide formalized structures for organized non-state actors to avoid undesirable political, security and legal consequences.