ABSTRACT
This study explores the influence of gender on decision-making within the government of Dutse Local Government Area (LGA), focusing on the role of women in political and administrative positions. The research aimed to assess the perceptions of gender equality in government decision-making processes, the barriers women face, and potential strategies for addressing gender discrimination. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 50 respondents, which included questions about demographic information, gender roles in decision-making, and the challenges women encounter in the workplace. The results revealed that a significant proportion of respondents (80%) believe gender differences impact government decision-making. Additionally, 70% of respondents expressed concerns about the unequal representation of women in leadership roles, while 84% identified gender discrimination as a key factor hindering women's full participation. Cultural and societal barriers, such as traditional gender roles and biases against women in leadership, were identified as the most significant obstacles to gender equality. The study also highlighted a strong demand for policies to promote gender equality, including equal representation in leadership, gender sensitivity training, and the creation of mentorship programs for women. The findings suggest that while progress has been made, considerable efforts are still required to ensure women are equally represented in governance and decision-making roles. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on gender equality in governance and provides practical recommendations for addressing gender-based barriers in decision-making processes within local government institutions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page - - - - - - - - - - -i
Approval Page - - - - - - - - - - -ii
Declaration - - - - -- - - - - - -iii
Dedication - - - - - - - - - - -iv
Acknowledgements - - - - - - - - - -v
Table of Content - - - - - - - - - -vi
Abstract - - - - - - - - - - -viii
CHAPTER ONE
1.0
Introduction - - - - - - - - - -1
1.1 Background of the Study - - - - - - - - -2
1.2 Statement of the Problem - - - - - - - -3
1.3 General Objectives - - - - - - - -3
1.4 Research Questions - - - - - - - - -4
1.5 Significance of the Study - - - - - - - - -4
1.6 Scope of the Study - - - - - - - - -5
1.7 Research Hypothesis/Assumption - - - - - - -5
1.8 Historical Background of the Study
Area - - - - - - -6
1.9 Definition of the Terms - - - - - - - - -7
References - - - - - - - - - -8
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction - - - - - - - - - -11
2.1 Concept of Drug
Addiction - - - - - - - -11
2.2 Overview of
Political Thuggery - - - - - - - -17
2.3 Youth and Substance
Abuse in Nigeria - - - - - - -19
2.4 Relationship Between
Drug Addiction and Political Thuggery - - - -21
2.5 Theoretical
Framework - - - - - - - - -23
2.6 Empirical
Studies - - - - - - - - - -25
References - - - - - - - - - -29
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design - - - - - - - - - -30
3.2 Population of
the Study - - - - - - - - -30
3.3 Sample Techniques - - - - - - - - -31
3.4 Sampling Size - - - - - - - - - -31
3.5 Data Collection
Methods - - - - - - - - -32
3.6 Method of Data
Analysis - - - - - - - -32
CHAPTER FOURDATA PRESENTATION
AND ANALYSIS OF DATA
4.0 Introduction - - - - - - - - - -33
4.1 Demographic Data of the Respondents - - - - - - -33
4.2 Presentation and
Analysis - - - - - - - -34
4.3 Summary of Findings - - - - - - - -38
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION
AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary - - - - - - - - - - -39
5.2 Conclusion - - - - - - - - - -39
5.3 Recommendations - - - - - - - - -40
Bibliography - - - - - - - - - -41
Appendix (Questionnaire) - - - - - - - - -43
CHAPTER
ONE
1.0 Introduction
Drug
addiction is a growing concern in Nigeria, particularly among youth, and its
connection to political thuggery is alarming. Political thuggery, a form of
social violence, damages democracy's sustainability. This study aims to
investigate the relationship between drug addiction and political thuggery
among Takur community youth.
Drug
addiction has become a significant public health and social issue in Nigeria,
with alarming consequences for communities, particularly among the youth. The
Takur community in Dutse Local Government Area has witnessed a disturbing rise
in substance abuse, which is increasingly linked to political thuggery.
Political thuggery refers to the use of violence, intimidation, and
manipulation by individuals or groups for political gain. This form of social
disorder undermines democratic processes and destabilizes communities, making
it a critical issue for both local governance and national development.
Drug
addiction has emerged as a pervasive social challenge with profound
implications for individual well-being, community stability, and national
development. Across many regions in Nigeria, the youth population, often
regarded as the nation's future, is disproportionately affected by substance
abuse. The problem transcends personal health concerns, fueling a range of
societal vices, including political thuggery. Political thuggery the deployment
of violence and intimidation to achieve political objectives has become a
recurring feature in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially during election
periods. Youths, lured by the promise of financial gain or manipulated through
drug dependency, often become instruments of political actors who exploit their
vulnerabilities (Okorodudu, 2020).
The
connection between drug addiction and political thuggery has attracted
increasing attention from researchers and policymakers. Studies reveal that the
use of illicit substances impairs judgment, reduces inhibitions, and
predisposes individuals to engage in violent activities (Adegoke, 2019). In the
context of Takur, a community within Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa
State, these dynamics are particularly pronounced. The area has witnessed a
steady rise in youth involvement in both drug addiction and politically
motivated violence. Political actors exploit this trend, supplying drugs to
vulnerable youths to ensure their loyalty and readiness to carry out acts of
intimidation and disruption during electoral campaigns. This pattern undermines
the democratic process, compromises community safety, and perpetuates a cycle
of addiction and violence.
1.1
Background of the Study
Drug
addiction has become a pressing public health and social concern, especially in
developing nations like Nigeria. The youth, who constitute a significant
portion of the population, are increasingly falling victim to the scourge of
substance abuse. This phenomenon not only threatens their personal development
but also has far-reaching consequences for societal stability and governance.
Among the various implications of drug addiction is its role in facilitating
political thuggery, a phenomenon that undermines democratic processes and
exacerbates insecurity. In many communities across Nigeria, political actors
exploit the vulnerabilities of drug-dependent youths, using them as tools to
perpetrate violence, intimidate opponents, and disrupt electoral processes
(Okorodudu, 2020).
Takur,
a locality within Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State, exemplifies the
intersection of drug addiction and political thuggery. Over the years, the area
has witnessed a disturbing rise in youth involvement in substance abuse, with
drugs such as cannabis, tramadol, and codeine being commonly abused. These
substances impair judgment and increase aggressiveness, making drug-dependent
youths ideal recruits for political thuggery. Political actors provide these
youths with drugs and financial incentives, leveraging their dependency to
secure loyalty and ensure compliance with violent tasks. This trend not only
erodes the democratic ethos but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty, addiction,
and violence among the youth population (Adegoke, 2019).
Despite
concerted efforts by stakeholders to address drug addiction and political
violence, the challenges persist. Socio-economic factors such as unemployment,
poverty, and lack of access to quality education contribute significantly to the
prevalence of substance abuse among youths in Takur. Additionally, weak law
enforcement and the normalization of drug use within certain peer groups
exacerbate the issue. The societal stigma surrounding addiction also prevents
many affected individuals from seeking help, further entrenching the problem.
Understanding
the connection between drug addiction and political thuggery is critical for
developing effective intervention strategies. This study seeks to investigate
the socio-economic and political factors driving substance abuse among youths
in Takur, the mechanisms through which addiction fuels political thuggery, and
the broader implications for the community and governance. By shedding light on
these issues, the research aims to inform policies and programs designed to
curb drug addiction, promote youth empowerment, and safeguard democratic
processes.
1.2 Statement
of the Problem
The persistent political Thuggery in Takur, Dutse
Local Government Area, are alarming, with youth playing a significant role in
the unrest. These Thuggery, often marked by violence, electoral malpractice,
and social instability, have been linked to the prevalence of drug addiction
among young people in the area. Despite efforts by government and
non-governmental organizations to address these issues, the cycle of substance
abuse and political manipulation continues unabated.
Drug addiction among the youth has become a serious
societal concern, with substances such as cannabis, codeine, tramadol, and
other intoxicants easily accessible in Takur. This addiction not only affects
the physical and mental well-being of the youth but also predisposes them to
exploitation by political actors. Addicted youths are often lured with promises
of money, drugs, or power to engage in political thuggery, ballot snatching,
and other forms of electoral violence, thereby fueling political Thuggery.
The lack of adequate research on the connection
between drug addiction and political Thuggery in Takur has hindered the
development of targeted interventions. Existing studies have focused broadly on
substance abuse and youth violence without exploring how addiction specifically
contributes to political instability. This research seeks to address this gap
by examining the prevalence of drug addiction, its socio-political
implications, and the factors driving this phenomenon among the youth in Takur.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies to
curb drug addiction and mitigate its role in political Thuggery.
1.3
General Objectives
Aim
To examine the prevalence of drug
addiction in catalyst political Thuggery among youth in Takur, Dutse Local
Government Area.
Specific Objectives:
- Examine the
prevalence of drug addiction among Takur community youths
- Investigate the
link between drug addiction and political thuggery among Youths in Takur
Community.
- Identify factors
contributing to drug addiction and political thuggery among Youths in
Takur Community.
- Recommend
strategies to address these issues is:
Key Issues:
·
Drug
Addiction: Substance abuse and its impact on youth behavior and community
well-being.
·
Political
Thuggery: Violence, intimidation, and manipulation by individuals or groups for
political gain, often involving youth.
1.4 Research Questions
- What is the prevalence of
drug addiction among youth in Takur?
- Which drugs are commonly
abused, and how are they obtained?
- How does drug addiction
influence youth involvement in political Thuggery?
- What interventions can be
implemented to curb drug addiction and its political consequences?
1.5 Significance
of the Study
This study is
essential for understanding the impact of drug addiction on political Thuggery,
particularly among the youth in Takur, Dutse Local Government Area, Jigawa
State. By examining the prevalence of substance abuse and its role in
exacerbating political instability, the research offers valuable insights for
policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders seeking to address these
intertwined issues.
The findings
will assist government agencies in designing targeted programs to curb drug
abuse while addressing its socio-political consequences. Community leaders and
non-governmental organizations can use the results to develop awareness
campaigns and initiatives that focus on youth rehabilitation and empowerment.
For academics and researchers, the study contributes to the limited body of
knowledge on the nexus between drug addiction and political Thuggery in rural
Nigerian communities, providing a basis for future studies in similar contexts.
1.6 Scope of the
Study
This study
focuses on exploring the relationship between drug addiction and political Thuggery
among youth in the Takur area of Dutse Local Government, Jigawa State. The
target population consists of youth aged 18–35 years, as this age group is most
affected by substance abuse and political instability. The study examines the
prevalence of drug addiction, the types of substances commonly abused, and the
socio-economic and political factors contributing to addiction. It also
investigates the role of addiction in youth involvement in political violence
and unrest, with an emphasis on recent political events and trends in the area.
Data will be
collected through a combination of surveys and interviews with youth, community
leaders, and stakeholders such as law enforcement officials and healthcare
providers. The study is geographically limited to Takur, and the timeframe for
the research covers a three-month period. This focus allows for an in-depth
exploration of the issues specific to the community while providing insights
that may be applicable to similar settings.
While the study
aims to provide comprehensive insights, it is subject to certain limitations:
1.
Geographical
Restriction: The study is limited to Takur in
Dutse Local Government and may not fully represent the dynamics of drug
addiction and political Thuggery in other areas of Jigawa State or Nigeria as a
whole.
2.
Sample
Size: Due to time and resource constraints,
the number of respondents may be insufficient to generalize findings beyond the
study area.
3.
Self-Reporting
Bias: Data collected through surveys and
interviews may be subject to inaccuracies as respondents might underreport or
exaggerate their experiences with drug addiction or political involvement.
4.
Cultural
Sensitivity: Discussing drug addiction and
political Thuggery is a sensitive issue in some communities, which might limit
the willingness of some participants to provide honest or detailed responses.
1.7
Research Hypothesis/Assumption
Hypothesis I
H₁: Politicians in Takur Area significantly
exploit drug-addicted youths for political thuggery.
H₀: Politicians in Takur Area do not
significantly exploit drug-addicted youths for political thuggery.
Hypothesis II
H₁: Socioeconomic factors, such as unemployment
and poverty, significantly contribute to the prevalence of drug addiction among
youths in Takur Area.
H₀: Socioeconomic factors, such as unemployment
and poverty, do not significantly contribute to the prevalence of drug
addiction among youths in Takur Area.
Hypothesis III
H₁: Community awareness and rehabilitation
programs have a significant impact on reducing the link between drug addiction
and political thuggery.
H₀: Community awareness and rehabilitation
programs do not have a significant impact on reducing the link between drug
addiction and political thuggery.
1.8
Historical Background of the Study Area
Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State, Nigeria, has a rich
history that reflects the evolution of governance in the region. Established as
a local government area in the 1970s, it has undergone significant changes in
administrative structures and service delivery methods. The local government is
responsible for various sectors, including education, health, and
infrastructure development. Understanding the historical context of Dutse Local
Government is essential for analyzing current organizational practices and the
impact of teamwork on productivity. As the local government strives to meet the
needs of its citizens, examining the effectiveness of its teamwork dynamics
becomes increasingly relevant (Jigawa State Government, 2023).
Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State,
has a history marked by rapid urbanization and population growth. Established
as a key trade center, the area has witnessed significant infrastructural
developments. Dutse is a city located in northern
Nigeria. It is the capital city of Jigawa state; it is home to Federal
University Dutse which was established in November 2011. In addition to the
federal University Dutse, there is also a Research institute for date palm
(sub-station) and state polytechnic in Dutse. The Jigawa state polytechnic has
its college of Business and Management studies at Dutse.
Dutse
is the capital of Jigawa state of Nigeria. The state was created in 1991 during
the military regime of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. Dutse (Dutsi, in
earlier notes) got it name from the rocky topography peculiar to the area.
Different forms of rocks can be seen widely spread across the town. Mostly
igneous in nature, the rocky town got it name from these naturally endowed
resources, Dutse (Hausa term rock). Dutse and its environment are well known
for date trees (Dabino) of different variety. The area is characterized with
undulating topography and hilly walls. The name Jigawa (from Jigayi) is
attributed to such topology. Peculiar to the North-western states, the population
of Dutse is predominantly Hausa and Fulani. With availability of agrarian land,
the inhabitants of Dutse are predominantly farmers; other occupations typical
to rural area are also available among the populace.
1.9 Definitions
of Key Terms
Drug Addiction: A
chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite
harmful consequences, often resulting in physical and psychological dependence
(National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021).
Political
Thuggery: The use of violence, intimidation, and coercion by
individuals or groups to achieve political objectives, particularly during
elections or political disputes (Olawale, 2020).
Youth:
Individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, as defined by Nigeria’s National
Youth Policy, representing a critical demographic in terms of societal and
economic development.
Substance
Abuse: The harmful or hazardous use of
psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs, which can lead to
dependence syndrome characterized by a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and
physiological phenomena (World Health Organization, 2020).
Democracy: A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who
rule either directly or through freely elected representatives. Political
thuggery undermines democracy by disrupting free and fair electoral processes
(Dahl, 2000).
Election
Violence: Any act of violence, intimidation,
or coercion used to influence the outcome of an election, often perpetrated by
political thugs (Ibrahim & Garba, 2018).
Vulnerability: The state of being exposed to harm or exploitation due to a lack
of resources, power, or resilience. Youths addicted to drugs are particularly
vulnerable to exploitation by political actors (Turner, 2020).
Rehabilitation: A set of interventions designed to optimize functioning and reduce
the impact of health conditions, including drug addiction, through medical,
psychological, and social support services (United Nations Office on Drugs and
Crime, 2019).
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