Banditry and Pragmatic Solutions to its Menace in Northwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Over the past decade, banditry has escalated dramatically in Nigeria's North-West, leading to the loss of thousands of lives and the destruction of property valued in the millions of Naira. The violence in the region is rooted in complex, interrelated issues, primarily stemming from localized disputes between farmers and herders over land resources. This situation has been exacerbated by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) since 2014. The severe impact of armed banditry on peace and security in the region necessitates research aimed at identifying pragmatic solutions to this crisis. This study employs a qualitative approach to directly engage with affected communities, capturing their experiences and perspectives. The findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action by both national and state governments to address the underlying causes of the crisis effectively. The study concludes with recommendations for intensifying efforts to resolve these fundamental issues and mitigate the ongoing threat of banditry.