The Niger Delta Militancy and the Boko Haram Terrorism: A Comparative Analysis
Philip I. Imokhai
Department of Political Science,
Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State
ABSTRACT
This paper compares the Niger Delta militancy and the Boko Haram terrorism. The reason for comparing the two groups is due to the growing demand from some prominent groups and individuals, mainly from the Northern part of Nigeria. A brief history of the two groups shows that they are spatially and ideologically differentiated. While, the Niger Delta militants were fighting against the state for developmental neglect and degradation of their land, the Boko Haram terrorist group is fighting to Islamise the country. It is the opinion of this paper, that both groups (Niger Delta militants and Boko Haram terrorists) pose the greatest security threat to the country since the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970. In granting amnesty for the Niger Delta militants, the paper disagreed with those calling for amnesty for the Boko Haram terrorists on the ground that Niger Delta militants were granted Amnesty, because the two groups were not propelled by the same reasons as stated above.
Keywords: Niger Delta Militancy, Boko Haram, Terrorism, Insecurity, Amnesty.
