Rogue States And Terrorism

 The threat of rogue states and terrorism poses a remarkable challenge to both regional and global security, with implications for international peace and stability. Rogue states, such as North Korea and Iran, have consistently defied international laws and norms, pursuing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes that threaten regional and global security. Terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Boko Haram, and others, have perpetrated heinous crimes and attacks on defenceless civilians, killing and maiming several thousands of innocent people, displacing others, while destabilizing countries and regions, and spreading fears and hatred.

One of the notable concerns with rogue states is their readiness and willingness to spurn and blatantly flout international laws and norms, often with reckless impunity. North Korea nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches have drawn widespread condemnation across the world, yet the regime continues to pursue its nuclear ambitions, posing a significant threat to regional and global stability. Similarly, Iran's nuclear programmes has been a subject of international discourse, with the country's persistent refusal to comply with UN Security Council resolutions and International Atomic Energy Agency            ( IAEA) safeguards. 

Terrorism, on the other hand, is transnational threat that knows no borders. Terrorist organizations have exploited globalization and modern technology to spread their ideology, recruit members, and plan attacks. The 9/ 11 attacks against US, the Paris attacks, and the Brussels bombings are just a few examples of the devastating impact of terrorism on global security. In Nigeria, the Boko Haram insurgency has resulted in thousands of deaths (especially Christians), displacements, and destruction of infrastructure.

Addressing the threats posed by rogue states and terrorism requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach. Diplomatic efforts, such as negotiations and sanctions, can be effective in persuading rogue states to abandon their nuclear development ambitions. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran, for example, prevented the country from developing nuclear weapons, albeit with controversy and challenges. However, diplomatic efforts must be backed up by robust economic sanctions and military preparedness to deter rogue states from pursuing aggressive policies to a conclusive end. 

Counter-terrorism strategies must focus on disrupting terrorist nteworks, preventing radicalization, and addressing the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, unemployment, and marginalization. In Nigeria, the government has launched various counter-terrorism initiatives, such as the Military Operation Lafiya Dole and the establishment of the Office of the National Security Advisor (ONSA). Unfortunately, all these efforts are not able to combat terrorism in Nigeria. The reason is because the same government which is fighting against terrorism also funds it. In Nigeria, it was late President Muhammadu Buhari that formed banditry in April 2014. He asked the Miyatti Allah Herdsmen Association of Nigeria to bring other herdsmen from Mali, Niger Republic, Senegal, Sudan, Libya to come and fight against Goodluck Jonathan's regime. At its inception, an infallible source said that the herdsmen bandits were 6, 000 in number. Two thousand bandits started the arbitrary killings in Nigeria whilst 4, 000 were stationed in Mali and Niger Republic to be standby for action when needed. Upon arrival, they were assembled in Kaduna under El-Rufai's sponsorship. They were addressed by various Northern Leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto and General Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar (Rtd). Buhari told them that Nigeria was given to the Fulanis by the Queen of England in 1860; and that there was need for the North to reclaim what rightly belonged to them. He bought all arms and ammunition required for them. He used Nigerian Defence Academy Commandant to train the mercenaries. They were sent to six camps: Ekiti State, Benue State, Katsina State, Kaduna State, Zamfara State, and Bornu State.They used Nigerian Air Force helicopters for their flight operations and the supply of food, medical supplies, arms and ammunition etc. The whole Northern Elders threw their weight behind Buhari and the newly born banditry agenda. The North ensured that President Goodluck Jonathan lost the 2015 Election through a well organized network pioneered by Professor Jega, a Fulani man who was the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). After the election, the banditry continued till today. So, the bandits know how they started their operations in Nigeria. Those people who invited them to start the arbitrary killing programmes are unable to look at their faces and tell them to stop.  

The trends of banditry and insurgency in Nigeria has persisted till today. Due to its devastating impacts on Nigeria, including the loss of thousands of lives (mostly Christians ) and displacements of rural dwellers, the United States' President, Trump, has unmistakably threatened to embark on a full military action against terrorism in Nigeria. International cooperation is crucial in addressing the threats posed by rogue states and terrorist activities. The United Nations, regional and global organizations, and international law enforcement agencies should work in cohesion to share intelligence, coordinate efforts, and build capacity geared towards countering these life threats. The Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, for example, brings together countries to share best practices and coordinate efforts to counter terrorism. 

In conclusion, rogue states and terrorism pose a significant threat to global security, requiring a comprehensive and coordinated approach. Diplomatic efforts, economic sanctions, military preparedness, and counter-terrorism strategies must be employed to address these threats. International cooperation and collaboration are essential in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, disrupting terrorists networks, and promoting global peace and stability. 

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