Terrorism stands in the midst of global challenges discussed annually at different summit of world leaders across different continents of the world.
It is a sad occurrence in Nigeria, resulting in the loss of countless lives and the destruction of properties worth millions of Naira.
The reasons for terrorism vary; religious fanaticism, differing political opinions and views, tyranny, power struggle and tribal conflict etc.
However, the result is same everywhere in the world; death, destruction and unrest!
To undo the devastating effects of terrorism, various government are employing different strategies and methodologies, including the use of force and a no-negotiation approach or amnesty provision.
No matter how efficient or unproductive these methods and strategies might prove, one clear area leaders have failed to grasp, are the underlying societal factors, that have in one way or another, nurtured innocent children, from harmless babies in the cradle, into cold-blooded terrorist in the streets.
Here is a look at the root of the matter; the development from childhood.
Terrorism: The Role of Society in the Making
Terrorist are not born, but bred. Terrorism is not inborn, but imbibed. Every active terrorist was once an harmless baby, what they have become is a function of what the society has exposed them to.
It therefore rests on the society to take responsibility for their actions as well, for while there is no moral justification for the harm they cause the society, their lives clearly shows the shortcomings of the society in the following ways.
Faulty Family Ties and Background
A background study of terrorist or people who engage in terrorism shows, that most of them had troubled childhood.
They are either products of failed marriages, poor parenting, child abuse, emotional abuse and trauma, as well as lack of affection.
Terrorism, for them, is a means of transferring aggression on the society.
Wrong Social Influence
An exposure to wrong religious beliefs, wrong cultural values, wrong peer influence etc. is another strong underlying factor responsible for the making of terrorists in the society.
Poverty and Economic Factors
Most terrorist groups employ people of low means of income, struggling to survive, to carry out their mission.
These set of people are brainwashed and given lame excuses, as an escape from the class of poverty.
The use of child-soldier by terrorist groups is not a new practice. With countless child beggars on the streets of Northern Nigeria, for instance, terrorist groups like Biko Haram and the Herdsmen, pick young children from the streets.
They offer these children food and shelter, put guns in their hands and the rest is history!
Unemployment and Devastating Effects of Bad Politics and Governance
A society suffering from collapsing infrastructure, unemployment and the pangs of poor governnance harbours the tools for crime, terrorism included.
It is no wonder why, brilliant minds who could have been gainfully employed, are major perpetrators, for scheming weapon designs and execution of acts of terrorism.
Likewise, the use of thugs in the electioneering season is a common practice, in Nigeria. These all, are jobless and disposed by the same politicians who use them to get to power.
However, such thugs help themselves, after getting disposed, by utilising weapons obtained as political thugs, to engage in kidnapping and terrorism, as a means of livelihood.
Terrorism: Undoing the Threat From the Grassroots
With some major factors boosting terrorism growth in Nigeria discussed, it is reasonable to also consider possible solutions, that could bring the nation out of the mess she already is and lay the threat of terrorism to rest.
While the amnesty provision and use of force is relevant in dealing with active terrorists and terrorism at the moment, addressing the societal issues earlier discussed, will prevent the innocent populace from engaging in the act of terrorism.
The government will do well to play its part in poverty alleviation, provision of infrastructure and employment opportunities, as well as basic amenities.
If proper and adequate measures are taken to provide good education and accommodation for stray children, it will reduce street begging and child soldiers for terrorism.
Political thuggery and hooliganism should get discouraged and perpetrators brought to book!
The family also has a role to play, in ensuring that good parenting and adequate care are given to children.
We hope and believe that, by putting our house in order, we can overcome this threat and come up strong.
Featured Image: vangaurdngr
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