The rise of Boko Haram in Nigeria and its spread to other parts of Lake Chad Basin has triggered the
proliferation of several community defense forces, otherwise known as vigilante groups. This policy
brief reveals that faced with Boko Haram attacks, the local population reinvented effective indigenous
self-defense groups for their survival. The brief further states that though proven effective in the fight
against Boko Haram, the quest by vigilante groups to provide security to their communities can
become a source of insecurity if not properly handled. The author, therefore, recommends the need for Security Sector Reform within the Great Lakes region that will minimize the risks posed by these
groups, optimizing their gains in fighting Boko Haram and addressing other security threats within the
region. This policy brief interrogates the geostrategic situation of the Lake Chad Basin and explains
why the area constitutes a fertile ground for Boko Haram activities. It also briefly highlights the origins of the vigilante group, their composition, age factors, eligibility criteria in joining these groups, their activities, and their relationship with the government, the traditional rulers, the population and other
security sectors. It goes a bit further to examine the modus operandi of these groups and how
their attempts and quest to provide security can be a source of insecurity. The policy brief ends
providing policy options.
