Religious Influence of Boko-Haram and Governance Challenges in Handling Internal Displaced Citizens in Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of religious sacrilege is attributed to a lack of comprehension regarding the inherent separation between religion and government. This study explores the intricate relationship between the religious influence of Boko Haram, a notorious extremist group in Nigeria. This study examined the influence of Boko-Haram and governance in the management of internally displaced persons in the Northeast region, specifically Borno and Yobe in Nigeria. Methodologically, content and narrative analysis are used to analyse the study objective. Conflict Management theory is adopted for the underpinning of the study. The findings suggest that religious individuals and groups have disrupted the established societal roles and norms of citizens, thereby undermining the legitimacy of constitutional principles. Hence, the study concludes that religious actors and followers have desecrated constitutional legitimacy, consequently affecting citizens. Therefore, governance has been confronted with administrative fiasco in its handling of the affected citizens in the study area.