Nigeria: jihadist fighters exploit 'state absence' and infiltrate the country
Jihadist fighters in Nigeria are taking advantage of the government's absence in various regions, prompting President Bola Tinubu to deploy military battalions following a deadly attack that left at least 160 dead.
In recent developments in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military deployment of a battalion to the Kaiama district in Kwara State as a direct response to a horrific attack attributed to jihadist fighters. This attack led to the deaths of at least 160 individuals and underscores the increasing challenges faced by the Nigerian government in combating terrorist activities. Analysts, including those from Good Governance Africa, emphasize that the ongoing 'absence of the state' is creating an environment conducive for these terrorist groups to thrive.
The village of Woro in central-west Nigeria became the site of the latest assault, further highlighting the security crisis that has persisted for over fifteen years, particularly in the northeastern parts of the country, where groups like Boko Haram and its rival, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have been active. This pattern of violence points to the complex web of jihadist activity across Nigeria, as President Tinubu faces mounting pressure to restore security and public confidence.
Researcher Malik Samuel has indicated that at least six jihadist groups are currently operational within Nigeria, complicating the state's ability to maintain order and protect its citizens. The escalation of violent incidents calls for urgent governmental interventions, and the strategic military response reflects the pressing need to address security concerns in the region effectively to prevent further loss of life and restore stability to affected communities.