Benue State University, Makurdi

Banditry and National Security in Nigeria: A Conceptual Discourse

Arnold Onyekachi David OKORO

Abstract

Globally, nations have continued to witness different dynamics of crises or conflicts. These crises or conflicts have remained protracted depending on surrounding factors. While some of these portray an outlook of peaceful agitations or protests, others are violent as in the case of banditry in several states across Nigeria. This crisis which is also a crime presents incidences such as destruction of properties, wanton killings, rape, kidnapping, abduction, looting, waylaying and invasions, using sophisticated weapons. It is a crime that is perpetrated by either a person or group of persons known as bandit(s). They are described as persons who are outlawed, proscribed or lawless marauders who operate from ungoverned spaces and maraud from place to place. These actions negate the peaceful living of citizens as well as the much needed national security by nations such as Nigeria. Thus, a marriageable question is created on the concepts of banditry and national security in Nigeria. The objective of this paper is to critically conceptualise banditry and national security in Nigeria as well as to determine their nexus. This is with a view to understanding the impact of each on the other especially to an affected nation (Nigeria). Conflict theory was applied while various literature on the subject of banditry and national security were examined. On the whole, it would be observed that the concept of banditry and national security are inversely proportional. This means that when banditry increases, national security is negated. But when national security is elevated, banditry diminishes appropriately.

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