Terrorism In West Africa: An Introductory Essay

Abstract

Etymologically, the term terrorism lays the word terror. Terror comes from the Latin word “terrere”,
which means “frighten” or “tremble”. When liaised with the French suffix “isme” (referencing “to
practice”), it becomes akin to “practicing the trembling” or “causing the frightening.” (Mitusitz,
2015). Trembling and frightening are similar to fear, panic, and anxiety - what we would naturally
refer to as “terror”. The origin of the word “terror” is over 2,100 years old. In ancient Rome, the
terror Cimbricus era was a state of panic and emergency in response to the coming of the Cimbri
tribe killers in 105 BCE. From this standpoint, the word terrorism was coined during the French
Revolution’s Reign of Terror in (1793-1794). In this work, four (4) out of eight (8) terrorists
organizations operating in West Africa are discussed. This study further examines their origins,
development, the extent of their networks and inter-linkages with the global terror networks.
Also their methods of operations (modus operandi) and sponsorship have been discussed. All
these thematic areas will enable us understand the activities of terrorists and their organizations,
as well as consciously prepare us adequately to counteract their actions before they strike. More
so, apart from awareness and sensitization of West African States nationals, the study helps
international counter-terrorism efforts to deal with the challenge or menace of global terrorism.