Improving the Security of Lives and Property in Rural and Urban Communities of Nigeria
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Date
2019
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Department of Political Science, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Abstract
Nigeria is currently experiencing serious security challenges. The federal government of Nigeria has embarked on efforts aimed at ameliorating the situation without achieving any significant success. This paper examined the role of local governments in improving the security of lives and property at the grassroots and urban communities in the country with a view to suggesting appropriate policies to address the situation. Specifically, the paper examined the causes of insecurity; evaluated the pattern of some of the insecurity issues in Nigeria in the last few years (2008-2018); examined the roles of local government in securing lives and property of the citizen; and identified the challenges confronting them in discharging these responsibilities. Secondary data formed the basis of data collection, interpretation and analysis. Data was collected from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data and through a comprehensive review of relevant literature on the subject of inquiry. Table and Trend analysis were used to analyse the data. Findings revealed that violence against civilians was highest in 2016 with 1928 occurrences. Farmers/herdsmen clashes was highest (285) in 2017, kidnapping was also highest (703) in the year 2017 and the highest suicide bombing (481) occurred in the year 2015. It can therefore be concluded that security of lives and property is central to development at all levels in the country. The paper made some recommendations, amongst which included revenue allocation formula should be reviewed with improved revenues to local governments as the closest tier of government to the people and local governments should be granted autonomy. Religious leaders should be involved in the security of lives and property through preaching in the house of God.
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Keywords
Insecurity, Socio-economic Development, Citizens, Urban and Rural Areas