ARMED BANDITRY AND THE CHALLENGES OF STATEHOOD IN NORTH-WESTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Armed banditry has emerged as a critical threat to statehood in North-Western Nigeria, undermining governance, security, and socio-economic stability. The persistent attacks by armed groups have led to widespread violence, loss of lives, displacement, economic hardship, and diminishing public trust in the government’s ability to maintain security. This study examines the challenges posed by armed banditry, focusing on its root causes, impact on governance, and state responses. The objective of this research is to analyze the extent to which weak governance structures, socio-economic inequalities, and porous borders have contributed to the rise of banditry. Using a qualitative research approach, the study relies on secondary data, including government reports, scholarly articles, and security analyses. The state fragility theory provides the theoretical framework, explaining how weak institutions and governance failures create an environment conducive to criminal activities. The study’s significance lies in its contribution to understanding the governance crisis in Nigeria and providing policy recommendations for addressing insecurity. Findings reveal that ineffective security strategies, corruption, and limited regional cooperation have exacerbated the crisis. Furthermore, the socio-economic marginalization of affected communities has fueled grievances, leading to increased recruitment into criminal groups. The study underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackling banditry. It recommends strengthening security institutions, enhancing intelligence gathering, addressing socio-economic disparities, and fostering regional collaboration to curb the movement of armed groups across borders. Addressing these issues holistically is essential for restoring stability and reinforcing state legitimacy in North-Western Nigeria.