Conference Paper

LOCAL SECURITY OUTFITS AND SECURITY CHALLENGES IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA.

The increasing rate of insecurity in Nigeria including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and other violent crimes has continually challenged the efficacy of the traditional security agencies in the protection of lives and property. This development has given rise to the formation of local security organizations that complement the existing security structures. The study examined the role of the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun) in addressing security challenges in Nigeria with emphasis on Ogun State Amotekun Corps, Yewa South Branch. Specifically, the study examined the effectiveness of Amotekun in crime prevention, intelligence gathering and community security management.The study adopted a descriptive survey design and used both primary and secondary data sources. The study population was 230 operatives of the Ogun State Amotekun Corps, Yewa South Branch. The sample size was determined by using the Taro Yamane formula, which resulted in 146 respondents. A total of 143 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. Secondary data were collected from the relevant books, research papers, government documents and official records. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. The findings revealed that Amotekun has added a lot of value to security through effective gathering of intelligence, surveillance of communities, prompt response to security threats and partnership with the traditional security forces. The study found that the organization is widely supported by the public because of its knowledge of local communities and geography. But its effectiveness is still hampered by inadequate funding, lack of logistics and operational constraints. The research concluded that Amotekun as a crucial complementary security outfit in tackling local security challenges. The study recommended increased resource allocation, improved logistics, ongoing training and strengthened partnerships with conventional security agencies for improved operational efficacy. Keywords: Local Security Outfit, Security Challenges, Community Policing, Crime Prevention, Amotekun Corps,