Securitization Versus Accommodation: A Theoretical Review of Nigerian State Responses to Biafra Agitation (2010–2023)

Alu; Clement Audu; Ph.D

doi:10.56201/jpaswr.v11.no5.2026.pg1.5

📄 Download Paper

Securitization Versus Accommodation: A Theoretical Review of Nigerian State Responses to Biafra Agitation (2010–2023)

Alu, Clement Audu, Ph.D

Abstract

The resurgence of Biafra secessionist agitation constitutes a significant challenge to Nigeria’s national integration and state legitimacy. This article interrogates the divergent conflict management strategies adopted under the administrations of Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015) and Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023). Drawing on Securitization Theory and Consociationalism, the study examines the transition from a non-kinetic, accommodative approach to a security-centric framework. The analysis demonstrates that while Jonathan’s strategy of elite inclusion generated short-term stability, it failed to address the structural drivers of separatist mobilization. In contrast, the Buhari administration’s securitized framing of the agitation as an existential threat contributed to its radicalization and organizational consolidation. The article argues that sustainable stability requires a hybrid conflict management framework that integrates de- securitization, institutionalized dialogue, and structural governance reform aimed at restoring state legitimacy.

Keywords

Biafra agitationSecuritizationConflict managementConsociationalismPolitical accommodationState legitimacy.

References

Adibe, J. (2017). Separatist agitations in Nigeria: Causes and trajectories. Brookings Institution. Buzan, B., Wæver, O., & de Wilde, J. (1998). Security: A new framework for analysis. Lynne Rienner. Ibeanu, O. (2019). Repression and the radicalization of identity politics in Nigeria. University of Nigeria Press. Inyang, B. (2018). Legal implications of the proscription of IPOB. Journal of African Law, 62(3), 415–432. Lederach, J. P. (1997). Building peace: Sustainable reconciliation in divided societies. USIP Press. Lijphart, A. (1977). Democracy in plural societies. Yale University Press. Nwangwu, C. (2022). Securitization of separatist agitations and the rise of ESN. African Security Review, 31(2), 112–128. Nwoko, K. C. (2016). The 2014 National Conference and reform debates. Journal of Pan African Studies, 9(4), 180–195. Okoli, A. C., & Ugwu, A. C. (2019). Military operations and internal security in Nigeria. Journal of Defence Management, 9(1), 1–7. Suberu, R. T. (2015). The Nigerian federal system. Journal of Contemporary African Studies, 33(4), 425–442. Tarrow, S. (2011). Power in movement. Cambridge University Press. Tilly, C. (2003). The politics of collective violence. Cambridge University Press.

Securitization Versus Accommodation: A Theoretical Review of Nigerian State Responses to Biafra Agitation (2010–2023)

Abstract

Keywords

References

More Articles from JOURNAL OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL WELFARE RESEARCH