Ibadan Journal of the Social Sciences
Volume 23, No. 2, 2025
DOI: 10.36108/ijss/5202.32.0230
Terrorism and Fundamentalism: A Quran-Exegetical Approach Nigerian Perspective
Shehu Hashimu, Mathias Jarikre and Bayo T. Asala
Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, National Open University, Abuja, Nigeria
Abstract
This research investigates the ideological underpinnings of modern terrorism and fundamentalism through a critical Qur’anic exegesis, with a specific focus on the Nigerian security landscape. Despite kinetic military efforts to curb insurgencies such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, the persistence of radicalisation suggests a deep-seated “Hermeneutic Disconnect.” The study explores how extremist movements employ a “Reductionist Approach” stripping sacred texts of their historical context (Asbab al-Nuzul) and moral objectives (Maqasid) to justify Hirabah (terrorism) as Jihad. Drawing on the theological framework of Wasatiyyah (Islamic Moderation) and the sociological lens of Narrative Criminology, the study employs Qualitative Content Analysis (QCA) and Thematic Exegesis (Tafseer al-Mawdu’i) to deconstruct radical “prooftexts.” Central to this discourse is the tension between fundamentalist literalism and the “Therapeutic Shari’ah” model advocated by contemporary Nigerian scholarship. The analysis reveals that extremists weaponise the “Abrogation Fallacy” claiming that the “Sword Verse” (9:5) nullifies the Qur’ans foundational peace mandates to construct “heroic” narratives of violence for vulnerable youth. The findings indicate that the “Modern Misconception” has evolved into a “Digital Misconception,” where algorithms amplify decontextualised “micro-interpretations” over nuanced classical jurisprudence. The study concludes that the most effective counternarrative lies in reclaiming the Maliki jurisprudential tradition and promoting a “Therapeutic” application of the law that prioritises human dignity (Karama) and Sustainable Development. Recommendations include the integration of Narrative Criminology into national deradicalisation programmes and the standardisation of digital religious authority to safeguard the “Middle Path” (Al-Wasat) against extremist hijacking.
Keywords: Fundamentalism, Islam, misinterpretations, terrorism.