IMPLICATIONS OF VIGILANTE GROUPS IN PROMOTING SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

The study which examines the implications of vigilante groups in promoting socio-economic and political development in Nigeria explains improved security as the basis for the growth and development of Nigeria nation. It traces the emergence of vigilante groups or community-based security organizations from the pre-colonial era when traditional institutions took the responsibility of security management to the post-colonial period especially in 1999 when the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) was established to assist the police in providing security. Inspite their underscored efforts in policing Nigerian territories, the study revealed several challenges that impede their efficiency in the discharge of assigned duties. And in an attempt to ensure the continuous assistance of the vigilante groups in the security management of our nation, some possible measures were proffered to enhance their efficiency. Haven considered their relevance in national development; the study recommends that all tiers of government and private organizations should support and encourage the existence of vigilante groups in Nigeria society