COVID-19 Pandemic and Street Crimes in Nigeria: Hindrances to Sustainable Development

Abstract

Every emergency has its security implications, corona virus 2019 is not an exception. This health emergency with its policy implications like lockdown of social and economic activities has implications for national security. One of the consequences of COVID-19 pandemic is street crime. The health emergency resulted in street crimes like theft, snatching of bags, phones, jewelleries and other valuables, robbery, burglary, street fighting and assaults and battery. These led to loss of lives and properties. Hence, this paper addresses the significant relationship between COVID-19 emergency and street crimes in Nigeria. The study applies qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data were sourced secondarily through the content analysis of edited textbooks, peer-reviewed journals and credible online resources. Findings showed that COVID-19 emergency and its policy measures like total lockdown of the economy and social activities, movement restriction and consequential loss of means of livelihood instigated street crimes. The paper recommends equitable distribution of palliatives, effective social safety net and adequate preparation for health emergency and increased human capacity building. This study will be useful to individuals, governments at all levels, National Centre for Disease Control, World Health Organization, non-governmental organizations and researchers in social and health sciences.