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SOCIO DEMOGRAPHIC MAKEUP AND GANG ASSOCIATION IN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1         Background of the Study

Nigeria as the most populous country in Africa, presents a complex socio-demographic landscape characterized by ethnic diversity, rapid urbanization, and significant socio-economic challenges. This backdrop plays a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of gang association in the country.

Nigeria's population exceeds 200 million, composed of more than 250 ethnic groups with three dominant groups: the Hausa-Fulani in the north, the Yoruba in the southwest, and the Igbo in the southeast (United Nations, 2021). This ethnic diversity is accompanied by a variety of languages, cultures, and religious practices, with Islam and Christianity being the predominant religions (CIA, 2023).

Rapid urbanization has been a hallmark of Nigeria's recent demographic changes. Cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Kano have experienced explosive growth, driven by rural-urban migration. This migration is often fueled by the search for better economic opportunities and escape from rural poverty and conflict (World Bank, 2020). However, the swift urbanization has not been matched by adequate urban planning and infrastructure development, leading to overcrowded slums, unemployment, and poor living conditions (World Bank, 2020).

Economic disparities and high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, are significant factors contributing to gang association. Nigeria's economy, heavily reliant on oil revenues, has faced challenges such as fluctuating oil prices and corruption. These economic issues have resulted in high poverty rates, with a large portion of the population living below the poverty line (National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria, 2022). The youth, who constitute a significant proportion of the population, are particularly vulnerable. Many young Nigerians face bleak prospects for employment and education, pushing them towards alternative means of livelihood, including gang involvement (National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria, 2022).

The socio-political environment in Nigeria also plays a role in gang formation and activities. The country has a history of political instability, corruption, and weak law enforcement, which have undermined public trust in governmental institutions. In this environment, gangs can thrive, offering a sense of identity, protection, and economic benefits to their members. These gangs vary in nature and scope, from local street gangs involved in petty crime to more organized groups engaged in armed robbery, drug trafficking, and political thuggery (International Crisis Group, 2021).

The rise of militant groups, such as Boko Haram in the northeast, adds another layer of complexity to gang association in Nigeria. While Boko Haram is primarily known for its insurgency and terrorism, its activities have disrupted local economies and social structures, leading to the displacement of millions of people. In the absence of stable governance and security, displaced youths are susceptible to recruitment by gangs and other criminal organizations (Amnesty International, 2020).

In addition to economic and political factors, social influences are significant in the context of gang association. Peer pressure, the desire for social status, and the need for protection in violent neighborhoods can draw individuals into gang life. The family structure, often strained by economic hardship and

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