Abstract
The persistent rise in banditry across North western Nigeria has emerged as a critical security and humanitarian concern, particularly affecting the socio-economic fabric of rural communities. Sokoto State, among other states in the region, has witnessed an alarming escalation of violent attacks, kidnappings, and displacement, thereby threatening the welfare and survival of its residents. This study specifically investigates the effect of banditry on the welfare of residents in selected communities of Isa, Sabon Birni, and Wurno Local Government Areas of Sokoto State. The study adopts a qualitative research design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with community members and key informants, alongside relevant secondary sources such as documented reports and case studies. A total of 15 participants were purposively selected using the snowball sampling technique, allowing access to firsthand experiences of victims and witnesses. Thematic analysis was employed to organize and interpret the qualitative data. The findings reveal that recurring bandit attacks have resulted in significant loss of lives, displacement, destruction of economic assets such as farmland and livestock, and the disruption of basic socio-economic activities, including the closure of local markets and schools. These consequences have severely undermined the welfare of residents, fostering a cycle of poverty, trauma, and insecurity. The study concludes that the failure of state and federal authorities to ensure effective security and socio-economic protection in these areas has exacerbated community vulnerability. Accordingly, it recommends that government and security agencies strengthen security presence in rural communities and surrounding forests to protect lives, deter attacks, and restore public confidence. This can be applied by increasing patrols, establishing local security outposts, and integrating community-based vigilante groups with formal security agencies to ensure rapid and coordinated responses while maintaining accountability. Implementing this measure can reduce immediate threats, prevent further displacements, safeguard livelihoods, and create a foundation for long-term community stability and resilience in Sokoto State.
Keywords: Banditry, Community Welfare, Rural Communities, Insecurity
DOI: www.doi.org/10.36349/fujpam.2025.v4i02.008
author/Abdulsalam Zainab, N.M Koko PhD, Prof. B.B Kasim & Muktar Bashar, PhD
journal/FUJPAM Vol. 4, No. 2
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