Nigeria Divided

Nigeria is and has been “in crisis”. A terrorist group that works off the already existing instability of the nation is separating the government and people.

Boko Haram, a terrorist group hailing from the Northeastern edge of Nigeria continues to carry out bombings and assassinations, creating a climate of fear. While the group’s name has been buzzing in recent news due to threats and attacks, Boko Haram started out as a non-violent group in the early 2000’s. In 2009, the spiritual leader of Boko Haram, Mohammad Yusuf was killed catalyzing a change in tactics of the group. Demands and motives of Boko Haram originally focused on the adoption of Sharia Law throughout Nigeria but have become more ambiguous over time. Whether the terrorist group desires an Islamic state or succession, their attacks have shifted from police forces toward political and religious leaders as well as civilians.

The clashing Muslim North and Christian South in Nigeria easily explain the existence of Boko Haram. Yet, the situation is not so two-dimensional. This Monday’s class defined an “ethnic group” along the lines of religion, language, or race. As mentioned, the Boko Haram is an Islamic extremist group, but the distribution of public goods plays heavily into the mechanics of the group. Northern Nigeria had a textile industry that provided jobs and economic growth until the discovery of oil in Southern Nigeria. The booming oil industry gave way to unemployment and lack of growth in the North. Corrupt governance and police response toward Boko Haram only exacerbate the matter.

So far as the future of Boko Haram, it is plausible to say that they will expand since the government has no real check on the group. Since the death of Mohammad Yusuf, the internal power structure and motives of the group are unknown. Right now the Nigerian government seeks to deal with the group diplomatically or militarily. While the Nigerian people are subjected to humiliating check points and increased security, their allegiance towards the government waivers. The government must figure out a plan of action in dealing with Boko Haram or else the North and South risk further division. My recommendation on dealing with Boko Haram is for the Nigerian government to pin point Boko Haram leaders, Abubakar Shekau and Mamman Nur to understand motives then try to negotiate with moderate members. Without a precise insight on motives the Nigerian government has little chance of effectively dealing with Boko Haram, meanwhile Christian Nigerians will seek refuge in the South.

Article Reference:

http://www.economist.com/node/21563751 
Image Reference:
http://thestreetjournal.org/2012/02/revealed-how-ibb-buhari-atiku-others-sponsor-boko-haram/