TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………..………………. iii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 3
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Introduction. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 11
2.2.1 Learning Theory. 11
2.2.2 Strain Theory. 12
2.2.3 Routine Activity Theory. 12
2.2.4 Labeling Theory. 13
2.4 Empirical Review.. 16
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 18
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design. 21
3.2 Study Area. 21
3.3 Population of the Study. 22
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques. 22
3.5 Research Instruments. 23
3.6 Data Collection Procedure. 23
3.7 Data Analysis Techniques. 24
3.8 Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 24
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 25
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Preamble. 27
4.2 Data Analysis. 27
4.3 Table based on research questions. 27
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
4.5 Discussion of findings. 45
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary of Findings. 48
5.2 Conclusion. 49
5.3 Recommendations. 50
APPENDICES. 57
Appendix I: Research Questionnaire. 57
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Since the beginning of time, drugs have been used for a variety of purposes. Herbal medicines, including herbal mixtures, leaves, roots and barks, have been used by ancient societies for centuries to treat illness and ward off evil spirits. This historical background shows how deeply rooted substance use is in human society. Dukku (2010) states that “drugs can be used, misused and abused,” which can lead to significant physiological, social and psychological risks and disorders. The initiation of drug use often begins with prescription from a healthcare professional; However, there is a growing trend towards addiction to these substances. Numerous studies indicate that prescription medications, particularly those used to treat pain, attention deficit disorder, and anxiety, are abused by illicit drug users at rates just behind marijuana (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2011).
NAFDAC (2000) as cited in Haladu (2003), characterized drug abuse as the excessive and sustained self-administration of a substance in disregard of medically or culturally accepted norms. This can also include the use of a drug to an extent that impairs a person's health and social functioning. Manbe (2008) described drug abuse as the excessive, maladaptive or addictive use of drugs for purposes other than medical use. The complex relationship between drug usage and criminal activity has attracted a lot of interest since rising substance use rates in Nigeria have been linked to certain crimes. Law enforcement and public health efforts face major obstacles due to the rise in drug trafficking and the rising demand for illegal substances in the country. NDLEA (2021) notes that drug use is one of the major factors in youths crime growth in the nation which calls for a more encompassing strategies to deal with drug abuse and crime that is related to drug as well as curtail the ongoing societal violence.
Health statistics have revealed that those who engage in drug abuse are most likely to be involved in violent crime, property crime and other criminal activities. Adebayo et al., (2020) shows that people who use drugs are more likely to engage in criminal conducts if they are under the influence of drugs or if engage in criminal activities to fuel their drug use. Further underscoring the complexity of this problem is the connection between drug abuse and organized crime, especially with regard to trafficking activities.
The presence of drug cartels into the Nigerian sphere has made things more complicated as these groups engage in violent confrontations with other rival groups and law enforcement which has a wider societal impact (Ogunyemi and Abiola, 2021).It is impossible to ignore the socioeconomic aspects of drug abuse in Nigeria. Drug abuse is a more common way of solving socioeconomic issues like poverty and unemployment among individuals (Akanbi, 2022). In addition to encouraging drug abuse, these underlying problems also encourage criminal activity since people may resort to stealing or other illegal means of subsistence. The society’s drug dependency and criminality as observed by Olaseni (2023) are cyclical requiring a solution approach that addresses the root causes of the problem as well as the demand and supply side of the issue.
Furthermore, Nigeria has changed its policy approaches over time to combat the twin problems of drug use and crime. However, there is still a lack of implementation of effective prevention and rehabilitation programs. Inadequate support networks for individuals recovering from addiction sometimes lead to relapse and continued criminal activity (Ibrahim, 2021). This is why the link between drug abuse and crime has to be established in a bid to design proper treatment programs. This can help policymakers and practitioners understand this connection and to work towards the modification of the factors that cause these issues while simultaneously conducting focused approaches that address the symptoms of these issues (Eze, 2024).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The escalating rates of drug abuse in Nigeria present a significant public health and social concern, particularly as they correlate with rising instances of criminal behavior. A substantial portion of the Nigerian population, especially among the youth, is increasingly engaging in substance use, which has been linked to a variety of criminal activities, including theft, violence, and drug trafficking (Adebayo et al., 2020). This dual epidemic poses challenges for law enforcement and public health systems, as the intertwining of drug abuse and crime complicates efforts to address these issues effectively. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported a worrying trend: many individuals involved in criminal acts have a history of substance use, suggesting a direct link between drug dependence and criminal behavior (NDLEA, 2021).
Moreover, the socio-economic factors that drive individuals towards drug abuse, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education, further exacerbate the problem. Individuals often resort to criminal activities as a means of sustaining their drug habits, creating a vicious cycle that perpetuates both drug dependency and crime (Akanbi, 2022). This situation not only threatens individual lives and communities but also poses significant challenges for national security and economic stability. Understanding the complex relationship between drug abuse and criminal behavior is essential for developing effective interventions that can break this cycle and address the root causes of these intertwined issues.Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Exploring the Relationship between Drug Abuse and Criminal Behavior in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To investigate the correlation between drug abuse and the prevalence of various criminal behaviors in Nigeria.
- To explore the socioeconomic factors that contribute to the relationship between drug abuse and criminal behavior in Nigeria.
- To examine the effectiveness of current policies and interventions aimed at addressing drug abuse and criminal behavior in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- Is there a statistically significant correlation between the rate of drug abuse and the occurrence of violent crimes in Nigerian communities?
- How do socioeconomic disparities influence the prevalence of drug abuse and associated criminal activities in Nigeria?
- 3. Are existing drug prevention and treatment programs in Nigeria effective in reducing drug abuse and related criminal activities?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between drug abuse and criminal behavior among individuals in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Criminology sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Kano Metropolis. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Drug Abuse
The excessive and harmful use of psychoactive substances, including illegal drugs and prescription medications, leading to physical, psychological, and social problems.
2. Criminal Behavior
Actions that violate legal statutes and are punishable by law, often driven by various factors, including socio-economic conditions, psychological issues, and substance use.
3. Substance Use Disorder
A medical condition characterized by an individual’s inability to control their use of drugs, leading to significant impairment or distress, including recurrent legal problems and social dysfunction.
4. Socio-economic Factors
Social and economic conditions that influence individuals' behaviors and choices, including poverty, unemployment, education level, and community resources, which may contribute to both drug abuse and criminal activities.
5. Recidivism
The tendency of previously incarcerated individuals to relapse into criminal behavior, often exacerbated by factors such as drug dependence, lack of support systems, and inadequate rehabilitation programs.
6. Stigmatization
The societal disapproval and discrimination against individuals who abuse drugs, which can hinder their access to treatment and support, potentially perpetuating cycles of criminal behavior.
7. Policy Framework
The collection of laws, regulations, and institutional practices designed to address drug abuse and related criminal activities, influencing prevention, treatment, and enforcement strategies in Nigeria.
