Resistance through Islamic clerics against Boko Haram in northern Nigeria

Resistance through Islamic clerics against Boko Haram in northern Nigeria

Author: 
Olojo, Akinola Ejodame
Publisher: 
Taylor & Francis Group
Date published: 
2017
Record type: 
Journal Title: 
African Security Review
Source: 
African Security Review, Vol. 26, Issue 3, September 2017, pp. 308-324
Abstract: 

Islamic clerics and scholars constitute one of the community actors affected by the Boko Haram crisis in northern Nigeria. This group is also one that is most familiar with the essential doctrinal elements required to deconstruct the narrative pushed by Boko Haram in a crisis where ideology represents a vital aspect. While not undermining the bearing which socio-economic and political issues have on the crisis, this paper frames the focus to emphasise the long-term battle where Islamic clerics are involved in winning hearts and minds. Drawing upon fieldwork conducted in Sokoto State and Borno State, this paper highlights the influential role of clerics in communal mobilisation and resistance against Boko Haram. It is suggested that a deeper integration of this community actor into the broader counter-insurgency struggle in northern Nigeria would be beneficial.

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CITATION: Olojo, Akinola Ejodame. Resistance through Islamic clerics against Boko Haram in northern Nigeria . : Taylor & Francis Group , 2017. African Security Review, Vol. 26, Issue 3, September 2017, pp. 308-324 - Available at: https://library.au.int/resistance-through-islamic-clerics-against-boko-haram-northern-nigeria