Assessment of Rural Banditry and Socio-Economic Implication in Niger State: A Focus on Shiroro Local Government Area Niger State, 2015-2021

Abstract

Banditry in Northern Nigeria, notably pervasive in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Niger, Kaduna, Kebbi, Abuja, and Kogi states, has evolved into a dire daily occurrence, primarily attributed to Fulani herders wielding sophisticated weapons. This issue has led to extensive displacement, loss of lives, and shattered communities, exacerbated by a lackadaisical government response, effectively turning criminal acts into lucrative enterprises. The socio-economic fabric of affected areas has been profoundly torn, with thousands displaced, lives lost, and families shattered. This violence has escalated into conflicts between herders and farmers, disrupting agricultural activities and posing a threat to food security. Focusing on Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State, the study investigates banditry’s socio-economic effects between 2015 and 2021. It highlights poverty’s role in fuelling armed banditry and its substantial impact on socio-economic activities, as indicated by 64.5% of respondents strongly agreeing on poverty’s influence. Statistical analyses support a significant relationship between poverty and banditry, as well as economic challenges and banditry attacks. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive interventions addressing poverty, unemployment, and governance failures to curb rural armed banditry and foster socio-economic stability. Based on the findings, this study recommends: equipping security agencies, supporting youth in farming, intelligence gathering, and community engagement to combat this menace and restore peace to affected areas.