Benue State University, Makurdi

FACTORS INFLUENCING VIOLENT CRIME AMONG YOUTHS IN KATSINA-ALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Mary Erdoo Uya, Abigail Kumaden Ibeenegh & Elizabeth Ashide Achir
Benue State University,
Makurdi.

Abstract

This study examines factors influencing violent crime among youths in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. It specifically looks at the nature and rate, types, causes and effects of violent crime among youth in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. The study adopted the survey research method. The instrument of data collection was questionnaire and key informant interview. Data was analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings of the study showed that the rate of violent crimes among youths in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area was high and the major violent crimes committed by youth were kidnapping, armed robbery, militia and banditry, terrorism, rape and sexual assault, killings, man slaughter among others. The causes of violent crimes as shown by the study included political factors, unemployment, poverty, conflict, insecurity, and illiteracy which affect the development of the area. The study recommended among others that Government should grant amnesty to militia youths in the area and provide training in order to reduce the rate of violent crimes among youths in the area.

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