Abstract:
Banditry is an organized crime committed by groups of outlaws in a society. It involves the use of threat or violence. Banditry involves crimes such as kidnapping, extortion, stealing, robbery, murder, etc., while bandits are unlawful armed groups, terrorizing people and confiscating their properties by force, using dangerous weapons. In recent time, bandits are in possession of dangerous and sophisticated weapons. Such dangerous weapons inflicted more fear and uncertainties to local communities concerning the safety of their lives and properties. This work using historical method of enquiry studies banditry in Kebbi State that is located in the North-Western Nigeria. Banditry is rampant at Danko-Wasagu, Yauri and Kalgo Local Government areas of Kebbi State. The result of the findings of this research reveals that the nature of banditry in Kebbi State is a disturbing one. Bandits engage in criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, armed robbery, theft, attacks on travellers, traders, farmers, villages, local markets, etc., in the state. It is evident that within the crime prone areas, many farmers cannot go to their farms due to activities of bandits. This menace threatens the general and food security of the nation. The study recommends massive enlightenment campaign to sensitize members of the public on the need for all to contribute towards solving the problem of in security in Kebbi State and Nigeria in general. All Nigerians, regardless of religion, race, ethnic, or political affiliation should come together and contribute their quota towards resolving the problem of insecurity in the country.
Keywords: Banditry, kidnapping, theft, economy, food security
DOI: 10.36349/sokotojh.2025.v13i01.005
author/Atiku Abubakar & Yusuf Ibrahim Auta
journal/Sokoto JH | Vol. 13, Issue 1 | Dec. 2025
