Ansaru and its Islamic Radicalization in the Lake Chad Basin

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the dynamics of Ansaru’s movement as it affected Lake Chad Basin. The study adopted descriptive design that depended on the Judgmental Sampling technique. Secondary sources (books, journal articles, monographs, conference papers, including internet materials) of data collection were sourced form Nigerian libraries and internet. These documentary materials were subjected to content validation before analyzing the study in the qualitative form. Notwithstanding the fact that frustration-aggression theory has deepened the understanding of the Islamic radicalization in the Lake Chad Basin, Ansaru’s insurgency continues unabated. Findings revealed that economic factors, religious ideology and weak institutions triggered the motivation for Ansaru’s Islamic radicalization in the Lake Chad Basin. The religious movement has led to insecurity, human rights abuses, humanitarian and economic crisis. Member states of Lake Chad Basin had adopted hard and soft approaches, while the United States, France, United Kingdom, China and Israel had rendered assistance towards mitigating the extremism though with little success. The study recommends good governance, strong institutions, ideological re-orientation and international cooperation as panacea for the Ansaru’s Islamic radicalization in the Lake Chad Basin.