Perception of the Role of the Nigeria Police Force in Militating Against Kidnapping Activities in Ubiaja Community of Edo State

Abstract

This study examined perception of the Nigerian Police Force in militating against kidnapping activities in Ubiaja Community of Edo State, Nigeria. The ex-post-facto research design was adopted, using survey method to elicit primary data and using the chi-square statistical technique for the analysis of data and testing of hypotheses formulated for the study. The study adopted the conflict theory to examine and explain the variables of peoples’ perception of the Nigerian Police Force on the curbing of the menace of kidnapping in Nigeria. The study revealed a positive relationship between inadequate funding, training and cases of corruption and the people’s perception of lack of capacity to curb kidnapping menace in Ubiaja Community in Edo State. Among other things, the study recommends internal rebirth in the structure and workings of the Nigeria Police Force to get rid of corruption within the rank and file of the Force. Government should also ensure adequate funding of the Police Force to make funds available to train and re-train the police; thereby equipping them with state of Art gadgets to satisfactorily combat the menace of kidnapping in Ubiaja Community and by extension, Nigeria in general.