Teaching Comparative Government and Politics

Sunday, January 01, 2012

Government action against terror

The Nigerian government has essentially declared war on the terrorist group Boko Haram. This is a test of the government's capacity and may be a test of civilian government.

The BBC report includes a link to a video of President Jonathan declaring the state of emergency.

Boko Haram attacks prompt Nigeria state of emergency

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has declared a state of emergency in parts of the country following attacks from the Islamist group Boko Haram.

The measure is in force is areas of the Yobe and Borno states in the north-east, Plateau state in central Nigeria and Niger state in the west.

International borders in the affected areas have been temporarily closed…

Mr Jonathan vowed to "crush" Boko Haram, which killed dozens in attacks across the country on Christmas Day.

Announcing the state of emergency in a live televised address, Mr Jonathan said: "The temporary closure of our borders in the affected areas is only an interim measure designed to address the current security challenges."…

The president added that his chief of defence staff had been instructed to take other "appropriate" measures, including setting up a special counter-terrorism force…

Boko Haram, which originated in Maiduguri, wants to impose strict Sharia law across Nigeria…