The Nigerian State as an Equilibrium of Violence: An Explanation of the Boko Haram Insurgency in Northern Nigeria

This article examines the factors and background behind the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria and contends that the religiously inspired violence of the crisis is a direct result of the flaws in the country's political system. The author argues that outbreaks of violence will continue as long as these flaws go unaddressed. He suggests that to attempt to bring about peace, the Nigerian government should introduce a combination of poverty reduction strategies, anti-corruption drives, development efforts, law enforcement and military engagement and dialogue.