DHQ: Most terrorist fighters driven by fear and money, not belief
The Defence Headquarters says that more than 60 percent of terrorist fighters in Nigeria are not driven by extremist ideology but by fear, coercion and financial incentives. It explained that many of those taking part in insurgent activities were forced to join or lured with promises of money and protection. A statement from DHQ noted that only a minority of the fighters are hardcore ideologues or commanders who are deeply committed to the violent cause. The rest are described as followers who became involved due to threats to their lives, lack of options or economic hardship in their communities. According to the military, some recruits were abducted as teenagers, pressured through family connections or told their relatives would be harmed if they refused to fight. Others were attracted by the promise of regular income, food or a sense of belonging […]
