Proliferation of Unauthorized Weapons and State Failure in Nigeria
ANAHUM Uriah Pheeyamila, AGBOR Anthony Odo, EMMANUEL Jikini
Keywords: Insecurity, unauthorized weapon, banditry, patrortism, terrorism
Abstract
This study seeks to explain the proliferation of unauthorized weapons and state failure in Nigeria. In recent years, there have been the unprecedented flows of unauthorized weapons into Nigeria and this arguably has given rise to grave security concerns in the country. Through a systematic review of literature involving journal articles, text-books, newspapers and white paper reports on the proliferation of unauthorized weapons in Nigeria, this study examines the failure of state institutions in regulating the proliferation of weapons in Nigeria and its imacts on state-building in Nigeria. Analyses of the study are rooted in assumptions of the failed state theory. Major findings revealed that the proliferation of unauthorized weapons in Nigeria critically exacerbate the humanitarian crisis bedeviling Nigeria and the country’s efforst to state-building. The study concludes that the proliferation of unauthorized weapons accounts for the unabated destruction of lives and property in Nigeria, thereby obfuscating the consolidation of democratic processes and institutions in the country. The study recommends that Nigerian borders should be effectively manned by relevant security agencies, and patriotism should be appropriately rewarded, celebrated and encouraged in the country.
Author Biography
ANAHUM Uriah Pheeyamila
AGBOR Anthony Odo
EMMANUEL Jikini
Department of Sociology,
Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria