Double tragedy! Stigmatization and social exclusion of women and children retunees from Boko Haram captivity: Raising the new “Shekaus”

Abstract

As the Nigerian government continues to counter terrorism and reclaim areas previously under Boko Haram, many persons have been  rescued especially women and children by the Nigerian Army since 2015 and have been returned to their communities now safe.  However, upon returning, they are faced with another burden of severe stigmatization and social exclusion from members of their own  communities especially for those who have been sexually violated and have bore children and become mothers. This paper, therefore,  seeks to examine the manner of stigmatisation and social exclusion faced by these returnees. It went further to examine the implications  of stigmatisation and social exclusion for the peace and security of the Nigerian polity. The study takes a qualitative method of research  with in-depth interviews conducted at Malkohi IDP camp, Jimeta, and Madagali in Adamawa state. The findings of the paper reveal that  these returnees are rejected, marginalised and excluded socially, politically and economically. The paper concludes by recommending  that the government along with relevant bodies must ensure a proper reintegration plan for these returnees as well as set up monitoring  teams to check stigmatisation and social exclusion in these areas so as to give the returnees a sense of belonging and ensure  their rights are guaranteed as citizens of Nigeria.