A disengaged Terrorist may not be De-radicalisedA disengaged Terrorist may not be De-radicalised

Exploring the Missing Links

Abstract

This paper explores the relationships between terrorist disengagement and de-radicalisation by examining the dynamics of terrorism and terrorist radicalisation. Against the background that not all terrorists are radicalised and not all disengaged terrorists are de-radicalised, this paper brings to fore the urgent need to re-examine the nature of terrorist disengagement and de-radicalisation in Nigeria, particularly, and Africa in general. It is the position of this paper that rather than treating terrorists as “outcasts” worthy of punishment, they should be treated as helpless individuals in need of rehabilitation. More so, the government at all levels, should incorporate genuine programmes of de-radicalisation that ensures a change of perceived self-identity and skilful reintegration for the disengaged terrorists. In addition to ensuring that the citizens have sense of belonging and meaningful participation in the government of the day, it is hoped that terrorism will be reduced to the barest minimum if not eradicated completely.