Film and Terrorism in Nigeria: A Reflection on “Beast of No Nation” As Tool for Counter Terrorism in The Nigerian Space

Abstract

Democracy in Nigeria has engendered fundamental human rights of the citizens, which was not possible under the military dispensation. However, the Boko-Haram, the Armed Fulani Herdsmen and the various ethnic militias – the nation has experienced in the past couple of years is the concern of this paper. The word “Terrorism” in whatever context it may be defined refers to the use of threats or violence to create fear and alarm. The terrorist murder and kidnap people, set up bombs, hijack planes, rape and commit all forms of unimaginable crimes, hence undermining the growth and economic development of the nation, subsequently putting the nation on a danger list. Though, government at all times have claimed victory over the wars against terrorism, the reverse is however the case as the activities of these dreaded sects seems unending every day. It is against this background that this paper reflects on images in the film “Beast of No Nation”, a film that takes viewers on a journey to a “Buffer Zone”, a village ravaged by war with the aftermath of pains, sorrows, tears and blood as a trademark. It is concluded in the paper that war and terrorism is an ill wind that blows no one any good but rather brings untold and avoidable hardship on innocent people chiefly due to corrupt practices of our political leaders and failure to give priority to education, welfare and security matters.