An Overview of the Effect of Cultism and Insecurity Challenges in Edo North

This study investigates the effect of Cultism and insecurity on social economic development in Edo North Senatorial District, Edo State. The research explores how various forms of cultism activities and insecurity vices such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and communal clashes affect business operations, employment, investment, and socio-economic development. The paper adopted a mixed method of data gathering and social conflict theory among other theories was relied on. The findings reveal a significant relationship between the causes of insecurity and disruptions to economic activities in the region. Insecurity was found to have a notable impact on business performance, job creation, and investor confidence. Furthermore, the study shows that government and community responses to the insecurity challenges are currently effective. The research concludes that these vices significantly hamper economic growth and development in Edo North, and by extension, in Nigeria. Recommendations are made to strengthen security architecture, improve community policing, and improve economic opportunities to reduce criminal activities.

Cultism, Insecurity, Economic Development

1. Abayomi, A. & Nnabugwu, F. (2012). Anxiety as Cults spring up in Primary, Secondary Schools. www.vanguardngr.com. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Adebakin, N.A. & Raimi, N.A. (2012). National security challenges and sustainable economic development: Evidence from Nigeria. Journal of studies in social sciences (1) 1, 1-30. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Adewale, R. (2005). Violence in the Citadel: The menace of secret cults in the Nigerian universities, Nordic Journal of African Studies, 14(1): 79-98 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Agogbua, S. N., Mgbatogu, C.D., & Nzewi, U.C. (2022). Impact of insecurity on Nigerian economic growth and development. International Journal of Development and Economic Sustainability, 10(5), 1-13. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Ajayi, I. A., Ekundayo, H. T. & Osalusi, F. M. (2010). Menace of cultism in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: The way out, Kamla-Raj Anthropologist, 12(3): 155-160. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Ajitoni, S.O. & Olaniyan, O.D. (2018). Causes and panacea to problem of cultism in the Nigeria education system, European Journal of Education Studies, 4(2), 257-267. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Ake C. (2001), Democracy and Development in Africa. Ibadan: Spectrum Books Limited. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Akinfolarin, W.A (2003). Combating cultism in Nigeria’s institutions of higher learning: The roles of the library, Educational Thought, 3(1): 297-304. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Akpabio, I. I. (2003). Reasons for non-utilization of HIV/AIDS screening services by women in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. Hamdard Med, 50(2), 100-108. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

10. Alemika, E. & Chukwuma, I. (2012). Analysis of Police and Policing in Nigeria. Centre for Law Enforcement Education and National Human Rights Commission, Lagos. LGT Co. Ltd. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

11. Arele, T.T. (2006). Factors militating against the eradication of students cults in Nigeria tertiary institutions of learning, Zimbabwe Journal of Education Research, 14(2),167-178 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

12. Arisukwu, O.C. (2017). The influence of insecurity on socio-economic development in Ilorin metropolis, Kwara State Nigeria, Social Science and Humanities Journal SSHJ,1(1), 14-37. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

13. Aweriale, P. E. (2005).Teaching, learning and pedagogical approach, Benin City: Olive Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

14. Béland, D. (2005). Insecurity, citizenship, and globalization: The multiple faces of state protection. Sociological Theory, 23(1), 25–41. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

15. Birabil, S. T. & Okanezi, B. (2017). Cultism as a ticking time bomb in Nigerian schools: Challenges and the way forward. International Journal of Scientific Research in Education, 10(2): 169-197 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

16. Bright, J. (2018). Explaining the emergence of political fragmentation on social media: The role of ideology and extremism. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 23(1), 17-33. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

17. Brodeur, A. (2018). The effect of terrorism on employment and consumer sentiment: Evidence from successful and failed terror attacks. American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, 10(4), 246 -282.https://doi.org/10.1257/app.20160556 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

18. Chandler D. (2007), The Security- Development Nexus and the Rise of Anti-Foreign Policy. Journal of International Relations and Development, Vol 10, pp 362-386. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

19. Cooter, R. D. (1996). Decentralized law for a complex economy: the structural approach to adjudicating the new law merchant. University of Pennsylvania Law Review, 144(5), 1643-1696. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

20. Daniel, J. (2011). Sampling essentials: Practical guidelines for making sampling choices. Sage publications. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

21. Dike P. (2010), Nigeria and the Quest for an Enduring Security Mechanism. Paper on National Security at the Royal United Service Institute, London, March 26. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

22. Dollard, J., Miller, & N. Doob, L. (1939). Frustration and aggression. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

23. Domar E.D. (1957), Essays in the Theory of Economic Growth. New York: Oxford University Press. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

24. Echekwube, A. O. (1999).Cultism in our higher institutions: The scourge of a Nation, Lagos: Spero Books Limited. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

25. Egbewole, W. O. (2013). ―Security Challenges: The Role of the Nigerian Woman”. Being the Keynote Address presented to the Annual Conference of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kwara State Branch on 19th March, 2013. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

26. Eguavoen, A. T. et al. (2006).Sociology: An introductory text, Benin-City: Lucosem Publishing House [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

27. Farrell, R. (2012). Boko Haram: Understanding the Threa”t. New York: Consultancy Africa Intelligence‘s Conflict and terrorism Units. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

28. Goulet, D. (1971). An ethical model for the study of values. Harvard Educational Review, 41(2), 205-227. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

29. Harrod R.F. (1959), Domar and Dynamic Economics. Economic Journal 69 (September): 737-741. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

30. Hay, J. R., Shleifer, A., & Vishny, R. W. (1996). Toward a theory of legal reform. European Economic Review, 40(3-5), 559-567. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

31. Ibeh, A. E. (2005). The Psycho-sociological Imperatives of Cultism in Nigerian Institutions of higher learning. Being a Paper Presented at a Seminar on Cultism and Its Effects on Nigerian Institutions of Higher Learning. Nov. 23 and 24 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

32. Inyang, J. D., & Abraham, U. E. (2013). The social problem of kidnapping and its implications on the socio-economic development of Nigeria: A study of Uyo metropolis. Mediterranean journal of social sciences, 4(6), 531-544. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

33. Itedjere, P. O. (2006). Current issues in the Nigerian educational system. Abraka: DELSU Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

34. Ivagher, E. D., Onyeanisi, T. U. & Agugu, D. I. (2016). Influence of cultism on the management of secondary education in Benue State of Nigeria. Journal of Educational Research and Studies. 4(2):18-25. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

35. Kingsley, I. (2021). Effective community policing in Nigerian towns could be a model for other Places: Retrieved February 3 2023 from https://www.un. org/ africarenewal/magazine/september-2021/effective-community-.policingnigerian-town-could-be-model-other-places [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

36. Krahmann, E. (2003). Conceptualizing security governance. Cooperation and conflict, 38(1), 5-26. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

37. Marx K. & Engels F. (1848). The Communist Manifesto, Introduction By Malia. New York: Penguin Group, 1998. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

38. McGrew T. (1988), “Security and Order” in Smith M., Smith S. and White B. (eds.) British Foreign Policy: Tradition, Change and Transformation. London: Allen and Unwin Ltd Newspaper, October 6, pp. 6 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

39. Mediayanose, O. E. (2016). Cultism and education in Nigerian tertiary institutions: Policy Implications, Journal of Public Administration, Finance and Law. 10, 42-54 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

40. Mgbekem, S. J. (2004). Management of University Education in Nigeria. Calabar: University of Calabar Press. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

41. Ndubuisi-Okolo U, & Theresa A. (2019) ―Insecurity in Nigeria: the Implications for Industrialization and Sustainable Development "International Journal of Research in Business Studies and Management“, 6(4). [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

42. Nnam, M. U. (2014). Secret cult menance in Nigeria within the context of social structure and political economy: A critical analysis. International Journal of Criminal Justice Sciences, 9(2), 171-180. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

43. Nwagboso, C.I. (2012). Security Challenges and Economy of the Nigerian State (2007 –2011).American International Journal of Contemporary Research, 2(6), 244-258. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

44. Nwanegbo C.J. & Odigbo J. (2013), Security and National Development in Nigeria: The Threat of Boko Haram. International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences. Vol. 3 No 4 pp. 285-291 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

45. Nzimiro, I. (1999). Dark Days in Our Universities: The Issue of Cultism and Secret Cults: a Sociological Evaluation, Ibadan, Zim Pan African Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

46. Ogah, D., Fanimo, D., Shadare, W., Ebosele, Y., Okere, R., Adepetun, A., & Lawrence, F. (2011,). Expatriates, Some Semi-Skilled, Take Over Even Menial Jobs from Nigerians”. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

47. Ogbagu, C.A. (2013). Policy issues in the administration of higher education in Nigeria, World Journal of Education, 3(1), 32-38. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

48. Ogunbameru, O. A. (1997). The sociology of campus cults in OA Ogunbameru (Ed.): Reading on Campus secret Cults, Ile-Ife: Obafemi Awolowo University Press Ltd. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

49. Oju, A. A. (1991). Secret Unionnism and campus security, New Nigerian Newspaper, March 28th, p. 30 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

50. Okeowo S 1994. Campus cults: manifestation of National decadence. Nigerian Tribune April 5, 1994, P. 5. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

51. Okonkwo, E. U., & Okoye, W. I. (1996). The efficacy of four seed powders and the essential oils as protectants of cowpea and maize grains against infestation by Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricus)(Coleoptera: Bruchidae) and Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky)(Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Nigeria. International Journal of Pest Management, 42(3), 143-146. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

52. Okonkwo, R. I., Ndubuisi-Okolo, P., & Anagbogu, T. (2015). Security challenges and the implications for business activities in Nigeria: A critical review. Journal of Policy and Development Studies, 9(2), 157-168. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

53. Olajuigbe, V.I (2001). The role of guidance and counseling in checkmating cultism in Nigerian secondary schools. Paper presented at a Seminar in the Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Ado-Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

54. Omebe, S. E. & Omobe, C. A. (2015). The crisis of education in Nigeria. International Journal of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education (JJHSSE), 2:12, 1-8. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

55. Omede A.J. (2011), Nigeria: Analysing the Security Challenges of the Goodluck Jonathan Administration. Canadian Social Sciences, Vol 7 No 5 pp. 90-102. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

56. Omoegun ,M., & Akanle, F.F (2007). Perceived causes and effects of cultism in Nigerian universities: Prevention and solution with counselling implications. Journal of Sociology and Education in Africa, 6(1): 79-97. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

57. Omoyibo K.U. & Akpomera E. (Undated), Insecurity Mantra: The Paradox Of Nigerian Growth and Development. European Scientific Journal Vol 8. No 15. Pp. 132-142 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

58. Onifade C., Imhonopi D. & Urim U.M (2013), Addressing Insecurity Challenge in Nigeria: The Imperative of Moral Values and Virtue Ethics. Global Journal of Human Social Sciences. Vol 13 No 2 pp. 52-63 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

59. Onime, B.E. (2018). Insecurity and economic growth in Nigeria: A diagnostic review. European Scientific Journal.14 (4), [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

60. Onodarho, A. (1999). Anchor: Secret cult activities on campus exposed (Rev. Ed.). Enugu: Snaap Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

61. Onyemwinmina, C. & Aibieyi, S. (2015). Cultism a destructive concept in the educational development of tertiary institutions in Nigeria. African Research Review 9(4):221-236. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

62. Opaluwah, A. B. (2000). Cultism and Nigerian Campuses: The way out. http://www/ganji.com [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

63. Oriazowanlan, A.O., & Erah D.O. (2019). Effect of insecurity on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) development in Benin-City, Edo state. International Journal of Business Management. 4(3), 75-86. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

64. Orukpe, T. (1998).Secret cults and the law. In Okwu, A. Critique of students’ vices on the effect on quality of graduate of Nigeria Tertiary Institutions. Retrieved from http://www.krepublisher.com/ [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

65. Ossai, A. G. (2001). Seminar paper presented at the Faculty of Education, Delta State University, Abraka. www.vanguardngr.com/2 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

66. Owoeye, J. 1997. Campus Cults: A Study in Urban Violence. In: Readings on Campus Secret Cults, O.A. Ogunbameru (ed.). Ile-Ife: Kuntel Publishing House. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

67. Owoeye, J. 1997. Campus Cults: A Study in Urban Violence. In: Readings on Campus Secret Cults, O.A. Ogunbameru (ed.). Ile-Ife: Kuntel Publishing House. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

68. Rapley C.E. (2007), Issues in Measuring and Assessing Progress and Obstacles Encountered in Achieving Internationally Agreed Development Goals from the Disability Perspective, a Paper Presented at the Expert Group Meeting on Developing Supplementary Targets and Indicators on Social Inclusion, Population, Gender Equity and Health Promotion to Strengthen the MDGs Process, held on 13-15 November 2007 in Bangkok. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

69. Rostow W. (1952), The Process of Economic Growth. New York: Norton and CO. Inc. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

70. The Sun (2013). Job Racketeering”. http://sunnewsonline.com [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

71. Thirlwall A.P. (1999), Growth and Development: With Special Reference to Developing Economies. London: Macmillan. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

72. Udoh, N. A. (2011). Remote causes and counseling implications of examination malpractice in Nigeria. Inquiries Journal, 3(10), 65-80 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

73. Udoh, V. C. & Ikezu, U. J. M (2015). Causes, effects and strategies for eradicating cultism among students in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. A case study of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Anambra State, Nigeria. Journal of Education and Practice, 6(22), 22-29. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

74. Ugwulebo, E. O. O. (1999). Campus cults: the scourge of our time. Springfield Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

75. Umeh, E. (2001). Tertiary institutions in Nigeria: Haven or coven? Enugu: Pan African Publishers. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

76. Vanguard (2013). ―NSCDC Arrest 560 Suspects Over Employment Racketeering”. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

77. Yahaya, D. (2012). ―Health, Human Security and the Peace-building Process‖. IPSHU English Research Report Series (19), 176-196. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

78. Yahaya, J.U., & Bello, M.M. (2020). Kidnapping and hostage taking: Emerging issues in Insecurity in Katsina State. Journal of Advances in Social Science and Humanities, 6 (3), 1154-1162. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

79. Yomere, G.O. & Agbonifoh, B.A, (1999) Research Method in the Social Science and Education, Benin City, Centre Piece Consultants Nigeria Ltd. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

80. Yusuf, A., & Moh‟d, S. (2022). Growth and fiscal effects of insecurity on the Nigerian economy. The European Journal of Development Research. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• The Impact of Ownership Structure on Dividend Payout Policy of Listed Plantation Companies in Sri Lanka
• Urban Sustainability in North-East India: A Study through the lens of NER-SDG index
• Performance Assessment of Predictive Forecasting Techniques for Enhancing Hospital Supply Chain Efficiency in Healthcare Logistics
• The Fractured Self in Julian Barnes' Postmodern Fiction: Identity Crisis and Deflation in Metroland and the Sense of an Ending
• Impact of Flood on the Employment, Labour Productivity and Migration of Agricultural Labour in North Bihar