CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF BOKO HARAM PREVALENCE IN NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The existence of insurgency (especially the Boko Haram) has been destructive as it has adversely affected the Nigerian economy at large especially in the north-eastern part. This study examines the causes and effects of Boko Haram prevalence in North-eastern Nigeria. The Youth Bulge Theory was adopted as theoretical framework because it explain how some individuals or group of individuals take to crime registered their grievances either against the society or government of the state while some do so selfish gains or greed. Both primary and secondary data were used for the research. The study employed the use of structured questionnaire and personal interview to obtain data from the sampled respondents. The secondary data is sourced largely from books, journals, newspapers, internet sources and other published and unpublished materials. It was found that religion, political factors, ethnicity, economic factors, corruption and influences from established terrorist organization were the major factors responsible for the emergence of Boko Haram insurgency. Religious factor played a very serious major role in the emergence of insurgency in Nigeria. The study also reveals that Boko Haram insurgency in the region has led to the destruction of lives and property, put a halt to the agricultural activities, irrigation and water project in the Lake Chad region. The essence of economic development could not be isolated from peace and security. If there is no security within Nigeria, the rate of growth and development would reduce because development cannot take place in an atmosphere of insecurity. Due to insecurity, there is restriction in the movement of people, goods and services which have eventually affected the development of the region and the country at large. By extension, Boko Haram insurgency constitutes security threat to the Lake Chad Basin region. The study recommended that the government should address the root cause of the insurgency by taking appropriate channels towards the resolution of the conflict, providing much needed employment for the youths, the promotion of peace and reconciliation and respect for human rights.