How Insurgents Exploit Women to Undermine Security Efforts in Northeast Nigeria

How Insurgents Exploit Women to Undermine Security Efforts in Northeast Nigeria

By: Zagazola Makama

The capture of a woman attempting to smuggle mobile phones and ammunition to Boko Haram insurgents in Sambisa Forest has once again highlighted the evolving tactics of terrorist groups in Northeast Nigeria. The suspect, who was among those rescued by troops from insurgent captivity, was found concealing phones strapped to her legs and carrying bullets meant for the insurgents.

Intelligence sources confirm that the woman had been given the best treatment after her rescue, only for her to exploit the goodwill of the troops and attempt to supply critical resources to the enemy. This incident reflects a disturbing trend where insurgent groups manipulate the perceived innocence of women to facilitate their operations.

Over the years, Boko Haram and its splinter factions, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have increasingly turned to women to transport weapons, gather intelligence, and even act as suicide bombers.

The use of women poses significant challenges for security forces, as cultural and humanitarian considerations often make it difficult to scrutinize female suspects as rigorously as their male counterparts. Intelligence reports indicate that some women, under the guise of being victims of conflict, have played key roles in sustaining terrorist networks by smuggling cash, SIM cards, and weapons to fighters in the bush.

The Nigerian military has made significant efforts to rescue women and children from insurgent captivity, often providing them with shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation.

Intelligence experts warn that some of these women may not be acting voluntarily. Boko Haram has been known to coerce captives into working for them under threats of harm to their families. However, in some cases, ideological indoctrination plays a role, leading some women to actively support insurgent activities even after their rescue.

As troops continue their battle to restore peace in the Northeast, they must navigate the difficult balance between providing humanitarian assistance and preventing insurgents from exploiting their goodwill. The latest incident in Maiduguri is a reminder that the war against insurgency is not just fought on the battlefield but also in the shadows where trust can be easily weaponized.

How Insurgents Exploit Women to Undermine Security Efforts in Northeast Nigeria