Urbanisation and Crime in Nigeria

Abstract

Crime is a universal problem, which varies due to several factors. This paper looks into the relationship between crime and urbanization. The basic assumption is that the urban setting with its abundance of wealth and goods provides ample opportunities for various types of crimes. Thus, it is expressed here that (a) since urban dwellers are more prone to temptations and are also exposed to non-conventional ways and means, social control poses great problems, (b) factors which militate against social control and thus enhance the prevalence of crime include: (i) Increased interaction (due to high population density) in urban areas and anonymity which make crime detection a difficult task; (ii) Improved mobility and increased physical environmental heterogeneity. For example, a neighborhood which combines industrial commercial land use with family dwellings tends to harbour the potentials for almost any crime; (ii) Demographic and regional patterns also influence the kind(s) of crimes. For example, property crimes are less common in low-density areas. Importantly, since people are alienated and isolated, the sense of insecurity is on the high side. This paper also highlights the implications for crime prevention.