Sectorial Opinions in Southern Nigeria on the Motivation behind Boko Haram Terrorism

Abstract

This study undertook an empirical exploration to determine whether or not sectorial opinions in southern Nigeria about the motivation behind Boko Haram terrorism are influenced by the views of government. The study adopted cross-sectional and case study research designs and allowed pragmatic approach to underpin the sources of knowledge. Its mixed design (open and closed) questions questionnaire and employed the use of qualitative interpretative discuss analysis method to present and analyze the results. The findings suggest that opinions held by the five sample sectors and their participants are informed by the government and sectional views in southern Nigeria. Though the 15 participant’s opinions varied between government, sectional with occasional religious influence, many agreed that the government views and sectional position formed their opinions across the three zones in the south. The researcher recommends the need for Nigerian government to send a draft bill to the Senate and House of Representatives to enact an Act that will become law creating a national integrated security strategy framework unique to Nigeria alone. Also, members of the Lake Chad Security Basin Commission should develop a seventy (70) years strategic partnership document that would bind them to act and protect the strategic interest of member countries.