In Nigeria, Political Constraints in the Fight Against Boko Haram

Nigeria is escalating measures to rein in the unrelenting militancy of Islamist group Boko Haram in northeastern Nigeria, but long-standing political issues will complicate Abuja's efforts. On May 14, Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in the northeastern Yobe, Adamawa and Borno states and deployed roughly 2,000 troops to the region. The reinforcements may succeed in protecting some government and civilian positions. But absent cooperation from northern officials and elites — many of whom oppose Jonathan and have balked at hints that he may pursue a second term in 2015 — Boko Haram will likely be able to deflect government counterinsurgency operations and continue its attacks.