Title: Socio-Economic Impact Of Crime In Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Prof. Noah Lumun Abanyam, Garba Mbave Joshua, Bashiru Abubakar
Volume: 9
Issue: 5
Pages: 99-105
Publication Date: 2025/05/28
Abstract:
This study examines the socio-economic impact of crime in Jalingo Local Government Area (LGA) of Taraba State, Nigeria, with a focus on the forms, consequences, and responses to criminal activities within the community. Anchored on Robert K. Merton's Strain Theory, the research investigates how structural inequalities, youth unemployment, and weakened institutions contribute to rising crime rates and how these, in turn, affect economic and social development. The study adopted a descriptive survey design using a mixed-methods approach. A total of 399 respondents were selected through stratified random sampling and data were collected via structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with key informants such as traders, youth leaders, and local security actors. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency tables and percentages, while qualitative data were thematically interpreted. Findings reveal that the most common crimes in Jalingo include armed robbery, kidnapping, youth cultism, and theft, which significantly disrupt market operations, education, healthcare services, and public mobility. The study also discovered that crime erodes social cohesion, causes fear and displacement, and exacerbates poverty, particularly among vulnerable groups like women and the youth. While community vigilantes and police patrols have been introduced as control measures, the responses remain largely reactive, with minimal focus on prevention through youth empowerment, public education, or institutional reform. The study concludes that crime in Jalingo LGA is both a consequence and a cause of socio-economic instability. It recommends a multidimensional strategy that includes community policing, youth-oriented development programs, and stronger institutional collaboration to effectively mitigate the impact of crime and promote sustainable development.