Niger Delta Militants and the Boko Haram: A Comparative Appraisal

Abstract

Nigeria is a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Since  independence in 1960, ethno-religious and communal conflicts have remained the disastrous legacies of the British rule and of the three decades of military authoritarian control of the Nigerian state. The military not only distorted the practice of federalism that was bequeathed by the founding fathers of modern Nigeria but also, exacerbated the political rivalries between the major tribes. The unintended consequences are the struggle for political power and the sharing of the scare resources. This ushered in corruption and neglect of the need for good governance. Apparently, this brought sufferings to the people. It brought in its wake agitations and protests mainly among the unemployed educated youths. This, not only led to the Nigerian civil war (1967-70), but also the Niger Delta and Boko Haram crises. This therefore is an attempt at a comparative appraisal of both Niger Delta and Boko Haram crises.