POLITICAL CRISIS AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN BENUE STATE : A STUDY OF VANDEIKYA LOCAL GOVENMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE 2015-2019
Abstract
Abstract
Political crisis has remained one of the major obstacles to sustainable rural development in Nigeria, particularly in agrarian communities. This study examined the relationship between political crisis and rural development in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State between 2015 and 2019. The period witnessed recurring communal conflicts, farmer–herder clashes, political tensions, and insecurity which negatively affected agricultural productivity, infrastructure, and socio-economic activities. The study adopted a descriptive research design relying on secondary data sourced from journals, government reports, and scholarly publications. Findings revealed that political instability resulted in displacement of rural populations, destruction of farmlands, reduced investment opportunities, and abandonment of development projects. The study concludes that political crisis significantly undermined rural transformation in Vandeikya LGA. It recommends strengthened security mechanisms, inclusive governance, conflict resolution frameworks, and rural development policies aimed at restoring peace and economic productivity.
Keywords: Political Crisis, Rural Development, Conflict, Governance, Vandeikya, Benue State.
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