An Analysis of the Role of Women in Terrorism in Nigeria
Authors:
ADEYANJU Faith Omolola
Publication Type: Journal article
Journal: African Renaissance
ISSN Number: 25165305
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Abstract
Women have become increasingly active in a variety of terrorist activities over the last decade, with increased roles as combatants, suicide bombers, wives to male members of terrorist groups, birthing the next generation of fighters, and handling logistics, among other things. All of these are critical roles in the growth of the menace. However, counter-terrorism strategies in Nigeria have primarily targeted male militants while overlooking the fact that women are playing leading roles in terrorism. The study is qualitative in nature as it depends largely on documentary review, observations and interrogations on the involvement of women in terrorism in Nigeria. The study explains why viewing terrorism through a gender lens could provide a reliable understanding of the threats as well as critical intelligence in the battle against terrorism. The study found out that women contribute significantly to terrorism, not only as covert fighters but also as overt perpetrators. Therefore, the study contributes to existing knowledge in the area of terrorism studies by advocating that a broader consideration should be given to the dynamics of gender by taking terrorism as a gender-neutral concept. Consequently, the paper recommends that women's active participation should be incorporated into counter-terrorism plans and policy interventions that address the grievances identified to cause terrorism.