TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS. 4
CHAPTER ONE. 5
INTRODUCTION. 5
1.1 Background to the Study. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 8
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 10
1.4 Research Questions. 10
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 10
1.6 Significance of the Study. 11
1.7 Scope of the Study. 11
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 12
1.9 Organization of the Study. 12
1.10 Definition of Terms. 13
CHAPTER TWO.. 16
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. 16
2.1 Introduction. 16
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 16
2.2.1 The Resource Curse Theory. 16
2.2.2 The Rent-Seeking Theory. 17
2.2.3 The Institutional Failure Theory. 17
2.2.4 The Social Contract Theory. 18
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 18
2.3.1 Overview of Key Concepts. 18
2.3.2 Corruption and the Security Sector 19
2.3.3 Resource Allocation and Mismanagement 19
2.3.4 Bribery and Extortion in Law Enforcement 20
2.3.5 Impunity and the Rule of Law.. 20
2.3.6 Corruption and Terrorism.. 21
2.3.7 Security Agencies' Lack of Capacity. 21
2.3.8 The Civil-Military Relationship. 21
2.3.9 The Role of Political Leadership. 22
2.3.10 Judicial Complicity and Corruption. 22
2.4 Empirical Review.. 23
2.5 Summary of Literature Reviews. 26
CHAPTER THREE. 28
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 28
3.1 Introduction. 28
3.2 Research Design. 28
3.3 Study Area. 28
3.4 Population of the Study. 29
3.5 Sampling Techniques and Sample Size. 29
3.6 Data Collection Methods. 29
3.7 Research Instruments. 30
3.8 Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 30
3.9 Method of Data Analysis. 30
3.10 Ethical Considerations. 31
3.11 Limitations of the Methodology. 31
3.12 Conclusion. 31
CHAPTER FOUR. 32
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 32
4.1 Preamble. 32
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 32
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 35
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 46
CHAPTER FIVE. 48
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 49
5.1 Summary Of Findings. 49
5.2 Conclusion. 50
5.3 Recommendations. 50
REFERENCES. 53
APPENDICES. 57
APPENDIX I 57
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
According to its etymology, "corruption" includes any act by which a word or expression is changed from its original state to one that is considered defective or debased.491 This implies pollution or decay, as well as a deviation from generally accepted standards of behavior, in particular related to a change from what is typically considered good or bad in a given society. Viewed from this perspective means that corruption can manifest itself in social, economic or political forms. From an economic perspective, the general idea is to limit corruption to bribery and especially financial incentives.
According to Mclean and McMillan (2009), corruption refers to one person transferring a benefit to another person, who may or may not be entitled to such benefit, in return for an illegal payment. Such a payment or bribe is often assumed to be monetary, but may also be in return for the performance of a legitimate task (Noonan, 1987). The definition of corruption in Nigeria proves to be not simply corrupt practices due to the range of things covered under the label.
According to Smith (1997), when Nigerians talk about corruption, they are referring to many things including: “The abuse of state office for some kind of private gain...a whole range of social behaviors in which various forms of morally questionable deception facilitate the achievement of corruption prevent.” Wealth, power or prestige as well as much more banal ambitions. Nigerian notions of corruption include everything from government bribery and bribery, rigged elections and fraudulent business deals to the diabolical abuse of occult powers, medical quackery, cheating in schools and even the deception of a lover.
Owasanoye (2022) provides the official definition of corruption in Nigeria. These include bribery, fraudulent acquisition of property, fraudulent receipt of property, taking advantage of financial gain, gratification, influence peddling, dishonesty in advice with the intent to gain an advantage, less than a full day's work for a full day's wages, tardiness and laziness . Failure to report a case of inducement to the relevant authorities is also considered a criminal offense under the Act. Criminalizing non-reporting of acts or instances of inducement is nothing new in Nigeria, but incentivizing the reporting of such acts - part of the Buhari administration's whistleblowing policy - is relatively new and this underlines the seriousness of the corruption problem in the country.
Corruption has severely affected Nigeria's security management and contributed to systemic inefficiencies that hinder effective governance and the security of its citizens. Over the years, corruption has led to the misallocation of resources, reduced the effectiveness of the security sector and undermined public trust in law enforcement. Corrupt public procurement practices, such as inflated contracts for security equipment and services, have left authorities ill-equipped to deal with growing security threats (Ibietan, 2013). This had serious consequences as funds intended for public security were diverted for personal enrichment, leaving the population vulnerable to criminal activities, insurgency and terrorism (Aremu, 2003).
Ongoing corruption has further threatened Nigeria's internal security, undermining key institutions such as the police, military and judiciary. Because officials commit bribery and embezzlement, the ability to effectively combat crime is severely limited (Ogundiya, 2010). Security agencies, which often form the first line of defense against threats such as terrorism and banditry, suffer from inefficiency due to mismanaged resources and personnel more concerned with personal gain than national duty (Mikail, 2012). This corruption in the security sector has exacerbated insecurity as criminals take advantage of weak institutions and further destabilize the country.
Furthermore, Nigeria's culture of corruption has created a system in which criminal activities are often ignored or tolerated by officials. The entrenchment of nepotism, nepotism and favoritism in hiring and promotion within the security agencies exacerbates the situation and results in a demoralized and ineffective workforce (Alimi & Isiramen, 2016). This contributes to a vicious cycle in which corruption breeds insecurity and insecurity encourages further corruption as officials seek to protect their positions and assets. Therefore, combating corruption in the security sector is crucial to improve the country's ability to effectively address its security challenges (Adesina, 2014).
Finally, the impact of corruption on Nigeria's security management extends beyond the national level and impacts international relations and foreign investments. Nigeria's image as a highly corrupt state reduces the trust of international partners and investors, which further weakens the country's development prospects and its ability to address security challenges (Ogundiya, 2010). The insecurity caused by corruption in Nigeria has not only depleted resources but also created an environment of lawlessness that undermines efforts to build a stable and secure society. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive anti-corruption reforms and a commitment to transparency and accountability in all sectors, particularly those responsible for national security (Aghayere & Alimi, 2009).Top of Form
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
Corruption in Nigeria has severely undermined the effectiveness of its security management systems, hindering efforts to address the country’s growing security challenges. Despite vast investments in the security sector, the diversion of funds through corrupt practices has left security agencies poorly equipped and ill-prepared to combat the persistent threats posed by terrorism, insurgency, and criminal activities. The mismanagement of resources, inflated procurement contracts, and bribery within security institutions have not only led to the depletion of critical security funding but also to a loss of public trust in law enforcement and judicial systems (Ogundiya, 2010). As a result, the security apparatus lacks the necessary resources and manpower to maintain law and order, contributing to the rise in violence and instability across the nation (Alimi & Isiramen, 2016).
The pervasive nature of corruption within Nigeria's political and administrative structures has further exacerbated the situation by weakening governance and accountability mechanisms, which are essential for effective security management. Corrupt practices, such as nepotism and favoritism in the recruitment and promotion of security personnel, undermine the competence and morale of law enforcement agencies (Aghayere & Alimi, 2009). These inefficiencies contribute to the failure of national security policies and the erosion of the public's confidence in the government’s ability to protect them. The resultant insecurity not only destabilizes the country but also tarnishes its international image, making it more challenging to attract foreign aid or investment, which could otherwise aid in addressing security concerns (Ogundiya, 2010).Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of corruption on security management in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To examine the extent to which corruption undermines the effectiveness of security agencies in Nigeria.
- To investigate the relationship between corruption and the prevalence of insecurity in Nigeria.
3. To assess the impact of corruption on public trust in security agencies in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- In what ways does corruption within security agencies compromise their ability to combat crime and maintain order in Nigeria?
- How does corruption contribute to the rise of insecurity, such as terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery, in Nigeria?
- Does corruption erode public trust in security agencies and hinder their ability to effectively carry out their duties?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of corruption on security management 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 Security Management 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 Ashaka Security Company, Lagos. 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
- Corruption
A form of dishonest or unethical conduct by individuals in positions of power, typically involving bribery, embezzlement, or the abuse of public office for personal gain. In Nigeria, corruption is widespread in both the public and private sectors, significantly impacting governance and service delivery, including security.
- Security Management
The process of planning, coordinating, and overseeing activities related to maintaining safety and order within a society or organization. In Nigeria, security management encompasses both state and non-state actors working to address issues like terrorism, insurgency, and organized crime.
- Security Sector Reform
Efforts aimed at improving the effectiveness, accountability, and transparency of the security sector. This involves rethinking and restructuring security forces (such as the police and military) to ensure they can effectively address threats to national security, free from corruption and political interference.
- Public Trust
The confidence that citizens have in their government’s ability to manage public resources, uphold the law, and provide security. Corruption can severely erode public trust, as citizens may feel that the government is more focused on personal interests than national welfare, leading to less cooperation with security agencies.
- Terrorism
The unlawful use of violence, typically against civilians, to achieve political, religious, or ideological objectives. In Nigeria, groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa have capitalized on systemic corruption to finance their activities, recruit, and exploit weaknesses in the security apparatus.
- Impunity
The lack of accountability for illegal or unethical actions, particularly by those in power. Corruption often results in impunity, as corrupt officials or individuals may avoid prosecution, allowing criminal activities to thrive and undermining effective security responses.
- Institutional Weakness
The lack of capacity, effectiveness, and accountability within institutions tasked with governance and security. In Nigeria, corruption has led to the weakening of key security institutions, including the police and military, hindering their ability to effectively combat criminal activities and maintain peace.
