The Distorted Ideology of Boko Haram: Jihad or Terrorism?

Abstract

The emergence of Boko Haram in Nigeria's heterogeneous society has brought up important concerns about the ideology underlying the group's activities. In this study, the group's use of violence and destruction, together with its assertion that it is operating under the principles of Islamic Jihad is evaluated. Analyzing the ideas of terrorism, jihad, and ideology becomes crucial to comprehend the group's ideology, taking into consideration its transition from a religious insurgency to a full-fledged terrorist organization. It is of great importance to understand that the concept of ‘jihad’ has been and is being misused by different radical entities, especially Boko Haram, to fulfil its radical interests and terrorist activities. However, the prophetic tradition is seen to be contradictory to the activities carried out by Boko Haram. This study argued that while jihad is a multifaceted term that is interpreted differently by Islamic scholars, Boko Haram significantly deviates from the typical Islamic comprehension of jihad. In this context, an extensive review of scholarly works, primary texts, and doctrinal analyses related to the ideology of Boko Haram and jihad is examined in this study. While the paper sheds light on the ideology driving Boko Haram and draws parallels between it and Islamic warfare and jihad, it also attempts to offer recommendations to Muslims on taking ideological initiatives to counter destructive interpretations and misconceptions.