Separatist Agitations in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis of National Integration Under Buhari Administration

Abstract

This study examined the interface between separatist agitations and national integration under Buhari’s Administration in Nigeria. The study investigated the various separatist groups operating in Nigeria, particularly the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) that emerged as an outcome of unbearable incidence of marginalisation by Buhari’s administration. The study leveraged on the propositional trappings of relative deprivation theory to explain and bear witness to the argument that when marginalization consistently goes beyond its bearable height against groups to favour others, it would amount to relative deprivation. This becomes a breeding ground for various forms of agitation like self-determination. The study relied on documentary method for data gathering and adopted content analysis for analysing the materials generated. It firmly upheld that marginalisation, as obviously witnessed in Buhari-led administration, not only resulted in the revitalisation of the various separatist groups, but also undermined national integration in Nigeria. It recommended, amongst other things, for an inclusive national policy of integration and unity.