Nigeria, Dec. 28 -- The Boxing Day hit on Sokoto State in the North-West of Nigeria by the United States forces raises a number of problems, the main one being sovereignty. However, the concept of sovereignty has not been static. Under international law, it is agreed that sovereignty is not an abstract concept. In the main, it is the responsibility of each state to protect its citizens. It is obvious that the Nigerian State, given its leadership deficit, has been found wanting on the discharge of its sovereign responsibility in many parts of the country. Terrorists of whatever nomenclature have been killing Nigerians at will.

It is allowed under international law for a State that is unable to fulfil its responsibility to protect its citi...