ASSESSING FARMERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DRIVERS OF INSURGENCY IN BORNO AND YOBE STATES, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the nature and frequency of Boko Haram insurgent attacks experienced by households in a conflict-affected region of Northern Nigeria. Using survey data from 329 household heads, the findings revealed seven major forms of insurgency: arson, sporadic shooting, kidnapping, suicide bombing, bombing with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), forced recruitment, and threats. Sporadic shooting (45.62%) was the most prevalent attack type, followed by arson (30.54%) and IED bombing (13.41%), while kidnapping occurred least frequently. These patterns align with earlier studies, showing consistency in Boko Haram’s operational tactics within the region. Analysis of attack frequency indicated that threats were the most recurrent, averaging ten occurrences per household, reflecting the insurgents’ strategy of psychological intimidation and fear induction. Other attack types such as suicide bombing and sporadic shooting occurred with moderate frequency, averaging three and two incidents respectively. Sex-disaggregated results showed notable variations in exposure between male and female respondents. Since household heads reported experiences affecting all members of their households, the findings provide a broader understanding of the community-level impact of insurgency. The study highlights the pervasive and multifaceted nature of insurgent violence and underscores the need for targeted security interventions, psychosocial support, and resilience-building strategies across affected communities.