Banditry, Insecurity and Development in Benue State

This paper examined the impact of banditry and insecurity on development in Benue State. Specifically, the paper interrogated the causes of and various forms of banditry and insecurity, as well as the implications of the security challenges on development in Benue State. To this effect, the paper relied on secondary sources of data collection and Routine Activity Theory as a framework for analysis. Findings from the paper show that several factors are responsible for the state of banditry and insecurity in Benue State. These causes include youth unemployment and poverty, the desperation of politicians to capture political power, the proliferation of small and light weapons, a weak security system, and pervasive material inequalities and injustices, among others. Insecurity in Benue State has negatively affected development in Benue State. This has led to the loss of over 28,997 lives and properties, with 54,476 houses and farm produce valued at over N21 billion destroyed. Conflict between farmers and herders has caused displacement, leading to food insecurity. Violence between farmers and herders, and other forms of communal conflicts have destroyed infrastructure, forcing many children out of school. The burning down of police stations and 33 markets has intensified poverty and pauperization among the Benue people. The paper recommended, among others, addressing the root causes of banditry and insecurity: poverty, unemployment, and social marginalisation can contribute to the rise of banditry and insecurity. Also, addressing banditry, insecurity, and development challenges in Benue State requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including the government, local communities, and international partners.