Terrorism or clamor for resource control: An analysis of Nigeria’s Niger Delta militants

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to find out whether the activities of the Niger Delta militants can be classified as acts of terrorism or a clamor for resource control. The engagement tactics of kidnappings, attacks on oil infrastructural facilities and the placement of bombs and other explosive devices in public places suggest to some observers that the Niger Delta militants should be considered terrorists. Using content analysis of relevant secondary data, with insights from the experiences and perceptions of the study participants, this paper examines the engagement tactics of the Niger Delta militants. The findings may be useful in contributing to the development of policies that address the Niger Delta crisis. Similarly, key stakeholders equipped with such vital information derived from the result findings may understand, appreciate, identify, and develop appropriate strategies and guidelines that can be used to address the reasons behind the Niger Delta conflicts. All of these may lead to improvement in the lives of the residents that inhabit the land. Findings of this study may also enable the multinational oil corporations to re-evaluate their strategies and mode of operations and come up with better ways to operate in a peaceful environment, and thus contribute steadfastly and uninterruptedly to the Nigerian economy, and all these may invariably lead to positive social change. Much of the empirical evidence to be presented derives from my own research.