Benue State University, Makurdi

Urbanization and Crime Management in Makurdi Metropolis

Terkula Gaavson & Igah Sunday

Abstract

The study is set out to examine urbanization and crime management in Makurdi metropolis. The method adopted in this study was a descriptive survey with questionnaire being the major source of data collection. Data collected was analyzed using simple percentage. The failed state theory was adopted as a theoretical framework to guide the study. The findings revealed that, Makurdi metropolis has seen a significant migration of people from the surrounding rural areas. As the town's population has grown, so has the incidence of crime and the level of violence. The paper also revealed that the rise in unemployment also raises the country's poverty level, as people are compelled to live below what is considered acceptable due to a lack of a source of income. As unemployment and poverty level increases, crime of various nature become more prevalent. Thus, in an anxious bid to tackle this rising wave of crime in Makurdi metropolis, the federal and state governments have increased support for Nigeria criminal Justice system (The police, court and prison) in areas of personnel, logistics, and firearms. Infact, the police have also increased their presence, embarked on a joint patrol with the military known as “Operation Zenda”, and stationed some armed personnel carriers at strategic crime zones in the metropolis. However, it seems that the more weapons and police personnel deployed to fight crime, the more criminal activities are committed. The paper in line with these findings recommended that, the government should create more job opportunities for the youth; this will make them abstain from committing all such crimes

DOWNLOAD COMPLETE ARTICLE HERE (CLICK)