INSECURITY AND ITS IMPACT ON STATE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF IHIALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT

1.1 Background to the Study The quest for global peace and national development continues to be a central concern for governments and international bodies across the world. Achieving lasting peace has proven to be a daunting task due to the destructive impact of warfare, along with persistent ethnic and religious conflicts across various nations. Security remains the bedrock of unity, peace, and sustainable national progress. In Nigeria, this reality is well acknowledged. The 1999 Constitution clearly states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government” (Federal Government of Nigeria, 1999, as cited in Abdullahi & Oyinlola, 2020). This implies that all levels of government—federal, state, and local—are obligated to protect citizens and ensure the safety of their properties. However, recent realities reveal a gap between this constitutional promise and actual practice, especially over the past decade. The country has experienced an alarming increase in diverse criminal activities that continue to jeopardize the safety of lives and property (Abidoye, 2021). Insecurity has now evolved into a major obstacle confronting Nigeria, impeding national development goals and worsening the nation’s socio-economic challenges. Historically, Nigeria has faced numerous security threats, including colonial-era civil unrest and post-independence ethnic-religious crises. In contemporary times, these threats have taken new forms such as terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes (Adofu & Alhasan, 2018). The root causes of insecurity in Nigeria are deeply embedded in a mix of poor governance, widespread corruption, socio-economic inequality, and the uncontrolled circulation of small arms and light weapons. The government’s response to these issues has been hindered by inadequate security architecture and the politicisation of security management, further complicating efforts toward sustainable development (Adedeji & Kehinde, 2017). Among the most significant threats is terrorism, particularly in Nigeria’s northeastern region, where Boko Haram has remained active since the early 2000s. This insurgent group has wreaked havoc through mass killings, displacement of millions, and the destruction of social and economic infrastructure. The impacts of Boko Haram extend far beyond the northeast, creating a nationwide security emergency, breeding fear, and eroding public confidence in the government's ability to guarantee safety (Akinyemi & Olaifa, 2018). Compounding the crisis is the emergence of splinter factions like the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which has further stretched the capacities of Nigeria’s security forces. In addition to terrorism, armed banditry has become prevalent, particularly in northern and north-central regions. These armed groups have terrorized communities through village raids, mass kidnappings, cattle rustling, and other forms of organized crime. Kidnapping for ransom has become widespread, occurring not just in rural zones but also in urban centers. The widespread nature of these crimes has disrupted economic activities, displaced entire populations, and discouraged both local and foreign investment (Agbelusi, 2022). Communal violence is another serious aspect of Nigeria’s security problem. Such conflicts are often driven by ethnic and religious divisions or disputes over resources. A recurring example is the violent clashes between herders and farmers over land and water resources, especially in the Middle Belt region. These disputes have not only led to the loss of lives and property but have also weakened social cohesion and efforts to promote national integration (Olaniyan & Yahaya, 2016). The widespread availability of arms has further intensified these conflicts, enabling criminal groups to act with near impunity. The broader implications of insecurity for Nigeria’s development are significant. Economic activities have been crippled, with the country now seen as a high-risk environment for investment. This perception has led to capital flight and a sharp decline in foreign direct investment. The agricultural sector, which is a cornerstone of rural livelihoods and national food security, has been severely affected, as farmers abandon their fields due to the fear of attacks. This contributes to food shortages, rising inflation, and increased poverty levels across the nation (Ezeoha & Ugwu, 2015). The displacement of populations resulting from violent attacks has created humanitarian emergencies that overstretch government resources and undermine long-term development planning. Further complicating the situation are governance challenges such as mismanagement of resources, corruption, and weak political resolve. Funds allocated for security are often diverted or misused, while political interference in security appointments hampers operational effectiveness. This has led to a decline in public trust in the government’s ability to protect its citizens (Alison, 2021). In response, authorities have diverted attention and resources from critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, thereby stalling socio-economic progress. In an attempt to address the rising insecurity, the Nigerian government has employed various strategies, including military campaigns, community policing, and regional partnerships with neighboring countries. However, these measures have produced inconsistent results due to funding constraints, weak coordination among security agencies, and the complex, evolving nature of security threats (Akinola, 2015). What is clearly needed is a multi-dimensional approach that combines military responses with socio-economic interventions aimed at tackling poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Thus, this research sets out to examine the interplay between insecurity and state development in Nigeria, using Ihiala Local Government Area as a case study spanning the period from 2010 to 2024. ________________________________________ 1.2 Statement of the Problem Insecurity has become a persistent and growing issue in Nigeria, critically undermining the country's development across virtually every sector. The surge in violent crimes—ranging from terrorism and armed banditry to kidnapping and communal clashes—has seriously disrupted efforts toward economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development. The human and material tolls of these security threats have been severe, with countless lives lost, properties destroyed, and businesses forced to shut down due to the hostile operating environment (Bright, 2018). The inability of the Nigerian government to effectively contain these crises has raised fundamental questions about its governance capacity and commitment to ensuring the welfare of its citizens. In regions such as the northeast and northwest, terrorist groups like Boko Haram and heavily armed bandits continue to pose formidable threats. The lack of robust and effective security mechanisms has created a vacuum that criminal elements exploit, thereby worsening the already fragile economic and social landscape. These conditions have contributed to mass internal displacements, increasing poverty, and the breakdown of critical infrastructure (Akinyemi & Olaifa, 2018). There is a direct link between insecurity and economic stagnation, as the pervasive violence discourages investment and hinders job creation and economic diversification. Moreover, insecurity significantly hampers the state's development agenda by diverting financial resources from growth-focused initiatives to defense and crisis management. This reallocation of public funds has resulted in diminished investment in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure—areas essential for human capital development and long-term economic productivity (Bamgbose, 2022). In sum, the continued prevalence of insecurity presents a major barrier to Nigeria's attainment of sustainable development. Therefore, this study investigates the relationship between insecurity and state development in Nigeria, with specific reference to Ihiala Local Government Area from 2010 to 2024. 1.3 Objectives of the study The broad objective of the study is on A Study of Insecurity and Its Impact on State Development in Nigeria: A Case Study of Ihiala Local Government Area (2010–2024). The specific objectives is as follows i. Ascertain the primary sources of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024 ii. Evaluate the socioeconomic consequences of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024 iii. Evaluate the measures implemented to mitigate insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024. iv. Identify the challenges impending the effort to mitigate the incidence of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024. v. To propose strategies for improving security measures implemented by the government and other stakeholders. 1.4 Research questions The following questions have been prepared to guide the study i. What is the primary sources of insecurity in Ihiala LGA from 2010-2024? ii. What are the socioeconomic consequences of insecurity in Ihiala LGA from 2010-2024? iii. What are the measures implemented to mitigate insecurity in Ihiala LGA from 2010-2024? iv. What are the challenges impending the effort to mitigate the incidence of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024? v. What are the propose strategies for improving security measures implemented by the government and other stakeholders? 1.5 Scope of the study The study focus on Insecurity and state development in Nigeria (A case study of Ihala local government 2010-2024). Empirically, the study will ascertain the primary sources of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024, evaluate the socioeconomic consequences of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024, evaluate the measures implemented to mitigate insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024, identify the challenges impending the effort to mitigate the incidence of insecurity in ihiala LGA from 2010-2024 and propose strategies for improving security measures implemented by the government and other stakeholders. 1.6 significance of the study Practical significance of the study Findings of the study will provide practical recommendations that can be utilized by security agencies, development organizations, and civil society groups working to improve security in Nigeria. By highlighting the need for a multidimensional approach that includes community-based security, conflict resolution, and socioeconomic interventions, the findings offer actionable strategies for reducing insecurity. This can ultimately enhance the effectiveness of efforts aimed at fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development in the country. Findings of the study will be significant to policymakers as they will understand the complex relationship between insecurity and development in Nigeria. By identifying the root causes of insecurity and their impact on various sectors, the findings can guide the formulation of more effective policies aimed at addressing security challenges. Policymakers can leverage the insights to develop comprehensive strategies that incorporate socioeconomic interventions alongside traditional security measures, thus fostering a more holistic approach to national development. Findings of the study will be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature, add to library resources and serve as a guide to future researchers. 1.7 Research methodology Research methodology deals with the different ways or methods the researcher applied in order to carry out the research as well as the instrument used for gathering the data. There are several research methodologies appropriate for answering the research questions. The type of research methodology used in this research to gather data and relevant information is the systematic review and historical research and the study will adopt descriptive method of data collection. This will involve the collection of materials from secondary sources, such as books, journal articles, magazines, internet sources, international and national conference proceedings, published and unpublished articles. 1.8 Definitions of terms Insecurity: The state of being open to danger or threat; lack of safety or stability. In the context of Nigeria, it refers to various forms of threats such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts, and other forms of violence that undermine the security of individuals, communities, and the state. State Development: The process through which a government enhances the economic, social, and political well-being of its population. In Nigeria, state development encompasses efforts to improve infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic growth, governance, and social services. Nigeria: A country located in West Africa, known for its diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and natural resources, particularly oil. Nigeria has experienced various security challenges that affect its development trajectory. Terrorism: The unlawful use of violence or intimidation, especially against civilians, to pursue political, religious, or ideological goals. In Nigeria, terrorism is predominantly associated with groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Banditry: Criminal activities, including armed robbery, kidnapping for ransom, and cattle rustling, often carried out by organized groups in rural areas. It is a significant security threat in some regions of Nigeria, particularly in the northwest. Kidnapping: The unlawful abduction or confinement of a person against their will, often for ransom. In Nigeria, kidnapping has become a common crime, affecting both locals and foreigners and posing a significant threat to national security.