PUBLIC PERCEPTION ON THE ROLE OF LOCAL VIGILANTE IN CURBING INSECURITY IN GOMBE STATE: A CASE STUDY OF GOMBE METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT The study aim at analysis of the role of local vigilante in curbing insecurity in Gombe State: a case study of Gombe Metropolis. The study seeks to achieve the following objectives to assess the effectiveness of local vigilante groups in reducing crime rates in Gombe Metropolis, to evaluate the collaboration between local vigilante groups and formal security agencies in Gombe Metropolis and to identify the challenges faced by local vigilante groups in maintaining security and suggest potential solutions. This study adopts a descriptive research design. The target population includes members of local vigilante groups, community residents, local leaders, and formal security agency representatives in Gombe Metropolis. A sample size of 100 respondents was selected using purposive and stratified sampling techniques. Structured questionnaires were administered to community residents and vigilante group members. Findings reveals that majority of respondents are male (60%), while females make up the remaining 40%. However findings also reveals that 40% of respondents rated the local vigilante groups as Very Effective in reducing crime, indicatinga high level of trust and satisfaction with their performance. Furthermore findings also reveal that 40% of respondents rated the collaboration between local vigilante groups and formal security agencies as High, suggesting that a significant portion of the community perceives effective cooperation between these groups. The study concluded that the analysis of the role of local vigilante groups in curbing insecurity in Gombe Metropolis reveals that these groups face several significant challenges, particularly in terms of poor equipment and resources, lack of adequate funding, and inadequate training. Despite the challenges, there is a clear recognition among respondents of the importance of local vigilante groups in enhancing security. The study recommended that the local government and other stakeholders should prioritize funding for the local vigilante groups to ensure they have adequate equipment, resources, and operational support. Specialized training programs should be developed and implemented to equip vigilante members with the necessary skills to handle security threats effectively.