Who, How and Where: Understanding the Incidence of Terrorist Attacks in Nigeria

• In Event: Patterns in Terrorism

Abstract

Since the 9/11 attacks on the United States, terrorist activities have been on the increase. The CIA world factbook reports that there are over 84 terrorist groups active in 33 nations of the world. Boko Haram is one of the groups which has gained dominance in Africa; specifically in Nigeria. Research shows there is an additional group called the Fulani Herdsmen of Nigeria. Our study examines the relationship between who, how, and where the attacks took place between these two groups. Data for this study come from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) in assessing the injuries and fatalities of the Boko Haram group and the Fulani Herdsmen. Our study seeks to answer which group poses the deadliest threat to the Nigerian community and which of them are the most prevalent in attacks. The key hypothesis for this study is Boko Haram is more dangerous than their Fulani Herdsmen counterparts and are more likely to exert attacks on the Nigerian community through explosives.

Authors

• Olasubomi David Ayeni, Georgia State University

• William Sabol, Georgia State University