For immediate release Feb. 9, 2015 Contact: Laurie Wilson (417) 836-6259 LWilson@missouristate.edu University to host forum on Boko Haram SPRINGFIELD—The College of Humanities and Public Affairs at Missouri State University will host a forum on the terrorist organization, Boko Haram, from 12:30-1:45 p.m., Feb. 19 in Strong Hall, Room 301. “Boko Haram: Taming the Monster” will look at Dr. Bukola Oyeniyi’s research on the terrorist organization and the motivations behind its attacks. Oyeniyi, professor of history at Missouri State, will lead the forum to examine the history and objectives of Boko Haram. “The forum is set to address the underlying factors of terrorism, debunking the single-cause narratives given by the government and mainstream media about terrorism and why the global war on terrorism is failing in Nigeria,” said Oyeniyi. “Counter-terrorism efforts should focus essentially on the underlying issues rather than annihilating Boko Haram as a group.” The forum is being held in response to the terrorist attack on Charlie Hebdo’s satirical magazine office and the outrage that ensued afterwards. Twelve people were killed during the terrorist attack after the magazine released a caricature of the Prophet Muhammad. “Global revulsion against terrorism peaked a few weeks ago following the terrorist attack on Charlie Hebdo,” Oyeniyi said. “Recent police action against a terrorist sleeper cell in Belgium has also served as a wake-up call to nations that the battle against terrorism is far from being won.” The presentation is a call-to-action to gain global attention to terrorism in Africa. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Laurie Wilson, College of Humanities and Public Affairs executive assistant, at (417) 836-6259.

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