Countering Violent Extremism in Nigeria

According to Berger, an expert on extremist movements and terrorism, the concept of extremism arises from a perception of “us versus them” intensified by the conviction that the success of “us” is inseparable from hostile acts against “them”. Violent extremism is the point where extremism becomes terrorism, and it undermines peace, security, human rights and sustainable development. No country or region is immune from its impacts. The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and When Conducive to Terrorism is a powerful call to action for the international community to come together in response to the growing threat of extremist violence. It is a poignant reminder of the responsibility to address this pressing issue.

Jihadist terrorism in North East Nigeria is one of the manifestations of violent extremism in Nigeria. Boko Haram and its 2016 splinter cell, the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) have carried out dozens of terror attacks in Nigeria. Before 2005, Boko Haram was mostly unknown outside of North East Nigeria. In 2009, Boko Haram seized territory in North East Nigeria. By 2013, the group had gained international recognition and been branded a terrorist organisation. According to some analysts, the rise of Boko Haram traces to Nigeria’s history of religious and ethnic divisions, governmental corruption, and growing inequality.

Also, secessionist agitations in South East Nigeria have recorded multiple human rights violations due to its use of violence to drive separatist agenda in the region. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) initially pursued self-determination peacefully but faced government crackdowns and a perceived lack of progress. Internal disputes and leadership changes have led to a shift towards violent extremism, as some members saw it as the only viable option to achieve their goals. Security agencies have indicted the group for majority of the attacks that have been recorded in the region.

The impact of violent extremism knows no boundaries and reaches far beyond national borders. Terrorist groups, for instance, have employed a brutal campaign that has included attacks on schools, the burning of villages and hundreds of abductions; the violence has spilt over to other countries in the Lake Chad basin. It has perpetuated existing humanitarian crises and has caused immeasurable harm to communities. As of July 2022, the insurgency had displaced about 2.2 million people in the North East, the vast majority over 1.8 million in Borno State.  Whether through terrorist attacks or the recruitment of vulnerable individuals, its effects are devastating and have destabilised societies.  The convergence of conditions such as social and economic inequalities, political grievances, and manipulation of beliefs has paved the way for the proliferation of extreme ideologies and outright violence.

Moreover, the consequences of violent extremism are grave and cannot be ignored. Displacement and the exacerbation of societal divides are some catastrophic outcomes. In regions affected by conflict, militant groups capitalise on gaps, perpetuating a vicious cycle of violence. Furthermore, the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians, especially vulnerable groups like women and children, has resulted in rampant human rights violations and unspeakable atrocities.

The Nigerian government’s approach has mainly been military campaigns resulting in the militarisation of multiple regions of the country. Apart from the collateral damage and civilian casualties because of action from both sides (the military and extremists), losses of military personnel and equipment continuously bedevil the Nigerian security forces, especially in the fight against Jihadist groups.

The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and When Conducive to Terrorism highlights the need for comprehensive methods in combatting radicalisation and promoting peacebuilding. Prevention strategies must encompass various approaches, including grassroots initiatives, community engagement, and addressing underlying factors such as marginalisation and discrimination. Also, enlightenment of the citizenry is essential in countering the falsehood being spread by violent extremists. Collaborative efforts and global solidarity are crucial to addressing the cross-border impact of violent extremism. The Nigerian government, humanitarian organisations, and the international community must collaborate in finding sustainable solutions and fostering resilience among those affected by displacement.

This annual event serves as a driving force for acting to prevent the propagation of violent extremism and minimise its destructive aftermath. The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and When Conducive to Terrorism catalyses positive change through increased awareness and meaningful dialogue. Ultimately, investing in prevention is a moral imperative for safeguarding peace, security, and the well-being of all. Together, we must redouble our efforts to prevent the radicalisation of individuals and combat extremist ideologies that can give rise to acts of terrorism.