AN EXAMINATION OF THE LINK BETWEEN SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND RURAL CRIMES IN BORNO STATE: A STUDY OF BAMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BORNO STATE.

This study examined the link between substance abuse and rural crime in Borno State, using Bama Local Government Area as a case study. The objectives are to examine the prevalence of substance abuse in Bama Local Government Area; investigate the major causes of substance abuse among rural dwellers in Bama; assess the relationship between substance abuse and the occurrence of rural crimes; and explore the types of crimes commonly associated with substance abuse within communities in Bama Local Government Area. The study adopted a quantitative research design. The study focused on residents of Bama who are 15 years and older and have lived in the area for at least one year. Using Yamane’s formula (1967), a sample size of 400 was calculated to ensure representativeness while maintaining feasibility. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which provided consistency, anonymity, and ease of analysis. The findings of the study revealed that substance abuse is highly prevalent in Bama, with tramadol, cannabis, and codeine syrup being the most commonly used drugs. Youths aged 15–24 were the most frequently identified group involved in drug use. Drug consumption was reported to be public and regular, with significant growth over the past five years. The causes of substance abuse were deeply rooted in socioeconomic challenges, with unemployment, poverty, peer influence, and lack of education highlighted as the most pressing factors. Insecurity and displacement were also seen to contribute to the increase in drug use, with friends and local gangs identified as key influencers. The study established a strong perceived relationship between substance abuse and crime, with the majority of respondents asserting that drug use leads to criminal behaviour, particularly theft, assault, and property destruction. Youths were again identified as the group most involved in drug-fuelled crimes, often acting under the influence or in pursuit of funds to sustain their drug use. Crimes associated with substance abuse occurred mostly at night, in markets, residential areas, and motor parks. Finally, the study among others recommended that government, in partnership with non-governmental organisations and local authorities, should establish accessible and well-funded community-based drug rehabilitation centres in Bama, tailored to address the specific needs of rural drug users through culturally relevant and trauma-informed approaches.