Nigerian Government and Terrorists’ Negotiation: The Case of Chibok School Girls
Gabriel T. Abumbe
Department of Political Science, University of Calabar, Nigeria
Ojie A. Peter
Department of Political Science, University of Calabar, Nigeria
Emmanuel Eyo Etim *
Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Faculty of Social Sciences, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Lagos, Nigeria
Augustine Akah
Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Calabar, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The question of how potent negotiation is in ending violent terrorist campaigns has remained unanswered. This is because terrorist negotiation is morally repugnant as it is politically necessary. This study investigated the pros and cons of Nigerian government and BK negotiation. It examines some conditions that are necessary for fruitful negotiations as well as some factors that could contribute to failed negotiations; using the games theory. A qualitative method of data analysis was adopted in this study. Findings revealed that negotiation is one of the most viable options in the hands of the Nigerian Government to restore peace in the country and stop the continuous killings by BK. However, this negotiation should be done between representatives of the government and appropriate authorities within the sect. This paper recommends that terrorist negotiation should remain as the last resort and negotiation process should commence only when every other options have failed. Also, relevant bodies, stakeholders, Non-Governmental Organizations and the general public should be involved in the fight against BK and other insurgent groups.
Keywords: Nigerian government, BK, terrorism, negotiation, lasting peace