BOKO HARAM AND SECURITY THREAT IN NIGERIA: A NEW TWIST OF POLITICAL GAME IN TOWN

Abstract

Boko Haram insecurity complex which is pervasive and palpable is the most recent of the bones in Nigeria’s throat as a nation. Rumour and speculation of Boko Haram bomb scare have heightened the level of insecurity and impacts negatively on the socio-economic and political equilibrium of our beloved nation. This paper tries to unravel why the sudden Boko Haram religious conflicts take a political dimension in northern Nigeria. Methodologically, it relies on both primary and secondary sources of data. It argues that a combination of politico-economic competition, illiteracy, poverty and the obnoxious police extra-judicial killings are the core drivers of this sudden change. It concludes with a range of recommendations on how Nigeria could mitigate the security threat posed by Boko Haram.