CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF BANDITRY ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (A CASE STUDY OF MUNYA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE)

ABSTRACT This study examines the effect of banditry on rural socio-economic development in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. Banditry has in recent years become a major source of insecurity in rural communities, resulting in loss of lives, displacement of households, and the disruption of livelihoods. The objectives of the study were to examine the concept of banditry in Nigeria, identify its causes in Munya, assess its socio-economic effects, and recommend strategies for reducing the menace. The research employed a survey design with structured questionnaires administered to 300 respondents across selected communities. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, and the results were presented in tables. Findings revealed that inadequate security, and weak governance are the major causes of banditry in Munya. The socio-economic consequences were found to be severe, including destruction of lives and property, mass displacement, decline in agricultural production, closure of schools, food insecurity, and reduced economic opportunities. The study concludes that banditry poses a serious obstacle to sustainable rural development in Munya LGA. It recommends strengthening security operations, promoting youth employment, enhancing community policing, and providing adequate support for victims of attacks. Addressing these challenges will help restore peace and create an enabling environment for socio-economic growth in Munya Local Government Area and similar rural communities.