REMOTE WARFARE AND FRAGILE ACCOUNTABILITY: ETHICAL AND LEGAL CHALLENGES IN NIGERIA’S DRONE COUNTERTERRORISM OPERATIONS

Abstract

In recent times, global counterterrorism efforts and strategies have been reshaped bydrones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The security architecture of Nigeriahas witnessed a significant shift owing to the deployment and use of drones in the present fightagainst Boko Haram insurgents. Understandably, the use of drones reduces risks associated withmilitary personnel, accentuates precision strikes and enhances surveillance; their usage, however,is associated with some complex ethical concerns. This paper critically examines the ethicalconcerns surrounding Nigeria’s drone usage and operations, focusing on accountability andtransparency, civilian protection and adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL); and thebroader implications of remote warfare for state legitimacy. The research design of this study is aqualitative, doctrinal, and normative research design, and the theoretical base is anchored on theJust War Theory, International Humanitarian Law, and Moral Responsibility in Human–AI DroneWarfare. The study examines operational and normative challenges associated with drone warfareand concludes that, despite the tactical advantages of Nigeria’s drone programme, it is imbued withintelligence limitations, a lack of adequate regulations and ineffective accountability mechanisms.The paper recommends clearer legal frameworks, institutional restructuring and more transparency,which suggests that institutional reforms, clearer legal frameworks, and greater transparency arevital towards ensuring that drone deployment aligns with International Humanitarian Law, globalnormative standards and offers adequate protection to civilian populations.