IMPACT OF INSURGENCY AND COUNTER-INSURGENCY ON HUMAN RIGHTS IN NIGERIA: A LEGAL EXAMINATION

Abstract

Insurgency, an age-old phenomenon, has taken various contemporary forms, notably terrorism, making it a global concern. Nigeria, like many nations, grapples with the pervasive challenges posed by insurgency. Typically starting as small movements avoiding direct confrontation with government forces, insurgencies aim to alter government policies through unconventional tactics. In Nigeria, combating insurgency often involves law enforcement's brutal reprisals against both insurgents and innocent civilians, leading to rampant violations of citizens' human rights. This article examined the factors that cause insurgency, counter-insurgency, and the resultant human rights violations in Nigeria. It explored, the strategies employed by some major counter insurgency theorist and of the Nigerian government in curbing insurgency, and the concurrent human rights abuses. Emphasizing the recurrent infringement of rights such as life and freedom of movement during counter-operations, the articles aimed to shed light on the complex interplay between security measures and civil liberties. The article concluded by proposing practical approaches to mitigate human rights violations in the course of counterinsurgency operations, addressing the pressing need for preventative and remedial measures