GUNS AND SILENCE: THE PARADOX OF MILITARIZATION AND PASTORALIST INSECURITY IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA (2021–2025)

Abstract

The study investigates the paradox between militarization and the persistence of pastoralist insecurity in Southeast Nigeria between 2021 and 2025. The central objective is to assess whether militarization strategies have been effective in curbing insecurity associated with herdsmen violence. The study adopts securitization theory to frame the analysis, focusing on how security threats are constructed and how state responses shape outcomes. The method of data collection is documentary, minimizing personal bias, while content analysis is used to interpret key incidents, policy measures, and patterns. Evidence shows that, despite the widespread presence of military forces across the region, herdsmen-related attacks have continued unabated. These findings question the effectiveness of militarized strategies—particularly the use of checkpoints—in addressing internal security challenges such as pastoralist violence. The study recommends removing military checkpoints in residential and community areas and implementing targeted border security measures to prevent unauthorized herdsmen crossings. These recommendations provide a more sustainable approach to improving security in Southeast Nigeria