Abstract
Abstract
This study explores the complex nature of human rights violations in the context of countering terrorism in Nigeria. Consequent to the persistent threat of terrorism, especially since the 2009 Boko Haram terrorist' attacks, the Nigerian government has enforced several measures in order to provide national security and save its citizens from terrorist attacks. However, the implementation of these counterterrorism strategies has constituted human rights abuses. This study examined the complicated human rights violations that occurred in the government's counterterrorism framework by utilizing a detailed review of scholarly literature, legislations, media reports, United Nations' provisions, findings from non-governmental human rights organizations, and primary qualitative data analysis. Through semi-structured interviews, victims (N=24) of human rights abuses in the context of counterterrorism were examined to understand their experiences with Nigerian security operatives, based on the theoretical saturation method. Participants were displaced victims of terrorism residing in various Internally Displaced Person's (IDP) camps in Borno state, Nigeria. Findings revealed a pattern of systemic violations ranging from physical, psychological, and sexual to economic exploitations, with torture as the prevalent abuse pattern. By delving into the interdependence of security and human rights concerns, the study emphasizes the importance of developing more balanced approaches that support human rights and security. The findings of this study highlight the need for the Nigerian government and the international community to prioritize counterterrorism strategies that uphold civil liberties and ensure adherence to due process. Future research should explore comparative studies across different geopolitical regions and investigate the perspectives of diverse stakeholders to inform more equitable and effective policy frameworks.
Recommended Citation
Okoye, Ifeoma E. and Adejoh, Pius
(2025)
"Human Rights Violations in Counter-Terrorism Efforts: A Qualitative Study of Victims Experiences in Nigeria,"
African Journal of Criminology and Justice Studies: Vol. 14:
Iss.
2, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalscholarship.tsu.edu/ajcjs/vol14/iss2/3
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