Journal of Sociology and Social Work

Insecurity Crisis in Nigeria: The Law Enforcement Agents a Panacea?
Barr. Emmanuel Imuetinyan Obarisiagbon, Ph.D; Emily Obaide Akintoye, Ph. D

Abstract
Africa‟s most populous country, Nigeria is presently embroidered in security crisis which has become an unending challenge, not only by defying security measures but making a mockery of the efforts of the law enforcement agents and the millions of naira annually budgeted by government as security votes. This study therefore examines the predisposing factor in security crisis and the role of the law enforcement agents in the quest to stem its rising tide. The theory of class struggle as propounded by Karl Marx and enthused by Friedrich Engels was used to explain the topic under investigation. The quantitative technique which involved the use of questionnaire was employed to gather data from 831 respondents in Benin metropolis and this was analysed with the use of the simple percentage and inferential statistics. The study revealed that ethno-religious conflicts, weak security and judicial system, unemployment, poverty, porous borders, lopsided development and marginalization were some of the predisposing factors in insecurity in Nigeria. The study maintains that there is the need to strengthen the security and judicial system, create jobs and employment opportunities for youth while also being fair and equitable in the provision of infrastructure in the various geo-political zones.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jssw.v7n1a6