AN APPRAISAL OF THE PROACTIVE ROLES OF COMMUNITIES AND EMIRATE COUNCILS IN RESPONSE TO EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF RURAL BANDITRY IN JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines an appraisal of the proactive roles of communities and emirate councils in response to early warning signs of rural banditry in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Rural banditry is one of the security challenges affecting Nigeria and Jigawa State to be specific. It is a serious problem posing significant threats to security, stability, and development of the state. The phenomenon is characterized by armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other forms of violent crime have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of communities, and destruction of livelihoods.  Despite efforts by security agencies to combat the menace, rural banditry persists due to various factors, including poverty, unemployment and social marginalization. The aim of this research is to examine the warning signs of rural banditry in jigawa state; the study utilized the routine activity theory of Cohen and Felson. The Routine Activity Theory (RAT) provides a valuable framework for understanding the proactive roles of communities and emirate councils in responding to early warning signs of rural banditry in Jigawa State. According to RAT, crime occurs when three essential elements converge: motivated offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians. The study adopted survey research design. A total of The study selects a sample of one thousand (1,100) respondents. This is in line with Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) assertionThe study utilized cluster, purposive, and availability sampling techniques in achieving the research. The findings of the study indicated communities and emirate councils in Jigawa State face several challenges in detecting early signs of rural banditry, including limited access to information and communication networks, inadequate training and resources for community-based vigilante groups, and difficulties in identifying and reporting suspicious activities due to fear of reprisal or lack of trust in authorities. the study recommends that, To effectively address the issue of crime and insecurity in Jigawa State, it is essential to tackle the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, urbanization, and population growth. The government and relevant stakeholders should invest in education, job creation, and social welfare programs to address these underlying issues.