Political Economy of Insurgency in Nigeria: An Analysis of Boko Haram Sects in the Northeast

Abstract

This study explored the political economy of Boko Haram insurgency in the North-east of Nigeria. The central argument of this study is that, the upsurge Boko Haram Insurgency has posed serious threats to economy and insecurities to human existence in Nigeria. Using both primary and secondary data collection method the study identify among other things that Boko Haram insurgency have claimed thousands of lives and displaced inestimable properties, rendering the northeast region as the most dangerous zone in Nigeria today. That such threat affects the nation’s stability and development prospects.  Using frustration aggression theory, the study identified various factors that precipitated the growth and development of Boko Haram insurgency in the northern Nigeria. These include: inequality and social injustices, ethnicity problem, sycophancy, favouritism and marginalization, bad governance and corruption, religious extremism, unemployment, poverty and social frustration. The study concludes that, the threats incurred by Boko Haram sects on Nigerian state have profound security and economic implications; Boko Haram insurgents today threaten the viability of Nigerian state thereby brings about economic crises, political instability, growth and development.

Keywords: Insurgency, Boko Haram, Political Economy and Nigerian State