THE IMPACT OF UNEMPLOYMENT ON CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES: A CASE STUDY OF KALTUNGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, GOMBE STATE
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of unemployment on criminal activities in Kaltungo Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were gathered from 390 respondents using structured questionnaires. The research identifies prevalent crimes such as theft, drug-related offenses, and robbery, and establishes a strong correlation between unemployment—especially youth unemployment—and the rising crime rate in the area. Findings reveal that socio-economic factors like poverty, lack of industries, and inadequate government interventions significantly contribute to unemployment. Most respondents perceived government efforts to reduce unemployment and crime as ineffective. The study concludes that unemployment is a major driver of crime in Kaltungo LGA and recommends targeted interventions, including vocational training, job creation through infrastructure development, and improved policy implementation to address the twin challenges of unemployment and crime.
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