Boko Haram: the evolution of Islamist extremism in Nigeria

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Notes

1. The name Boko Haram has been rejected by members of the group which has been given numerous descriptors over the years. For consistency the group will be referred to throughout as the Boko Haram.

2. During the 1970s and 80s the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, under the leadership of El-Zakzaky, campaigned for an Islamic government in Nigeria under the slogan ‘Islam Only’. Although non-violent, the group's refusal to recognise secular authority brought them into conflict with the state. In the 1980s violent clashes took place between the state and a group called the Maitatsine, under the leadership of a preacher called Marwa who also refused to recognise the legitimacy of the secular authority. Violent flare-ups continued for several years despite the death of Marwa.