African Journal of Social and Behavioural Sciences

Table of Content

TABLE OF CONTENTS — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Volume 15, Issue 9 (November, 2025)

LABOUR TURNOVER AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN FEDERAL TEACHING HOSPITALS IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

Chiemeka Onyema, Queency C. Nwakanma, Chikere Princewill — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated labour turnover and service delivery in Federal Teaching Hospitals in Southeast Nigeria. The study specifically examined the relationship between high staff separation rates and declining quality of care; the effect of high turnover intention on waiting times and service accessibility; and how frequent staff changes influence the delivery of emergency services. The study was grounded in Human Capital Theory. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, across selected Federal Teaching Hospitals in Southeastern Nigeria. The sample size for the study was 338, with data collected using a structured questionnaire and interviews. Our data were analysed using the Pearson correlation statistical tool. The findings revealed a negative (-0.782) relationship between high labour turnover and healthcare service delivery, with hospitals experiencing higher separation rates reporting lower quality of care, and extended waiting times. Additionally, we found a strong
negative correlation (-0.729) between high turnover intention and accessibility of services. The most severe impact was observed in emergency service units, where a strong negative correlation (-0.751) was found between frequent staff changes and the accessibility of emergency services. Limitations of the study include potential response bias from participants and the focus on a specific
geographic region, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Based on the findings of this study, the researchers made the following recommendations: Federal Teaching Hospitals should implement comprehensive employee retention strategies that include competitive remuneration, career advancement programs, improved working conditions, and adequate welfare packages. Teaching hospitals should revise and strengthen their human resource management policies to include structured retention plans, clear career progression paths, and employee recognition programs. Hospitals should also establish regular feedback mechanisms that allow
employees to voice their concerns and suggestions, ensuring that their needs are adequately addressed.

GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN PRACTICES AND MSME PERFORMANCE IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Alfa Ibrahim, Virginia Kassah, Zwingina T. Christy — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The role of sustainable business practices like green supply chain management cannot be overemphasised in a volatile business sphere. This study aims to empirically explore the effect of green supply chain management on the performance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Lagos State, a major hub of MSMEs and the commercial centre of Nigeria. The specific objectives include the effects of green procurement and green manufacturing on the Performance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of the study comprised business owners and managers of
the 3,235,987 MSMEs in Lagos State, Nigeria, as reported by SMEDAN in 2021. Taro Yamane's formula (1967) was adopted to obtain a manageable Sample Size of 440, and the reliability of the instrument was analysed using multiple linear regression analysis. Findings revealed that green procurement has a significant effect on the performance of MSMEs in Lagos State, Nigeria; green manufacturing has no significant effect on the performance of MSMEs in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study recommended that Owners and Managers of MSMEs should ensure that quality inspection processes are in place to ensure that every material supplied complies with environmental sustainability. Additionally, owners and managers of MSMEs should improve their production processes through the adoption of eco-friendly machines that produce less sound and vibration.

REHABILITATION AND LONG-TERM MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Mariah Eyiamanu Onuh, Funke Temidayo Olofin — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Human trafficking inflicts enduring psychological, social, and economic harms that outlast rescue. While prevention and prosecution have advanced, the field still underinvests in the survivor’s long-term rehabilitation needs. This paper synthesizes evidence on post-trauma sequelae: PTSD, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma, and evaluates clinical and community models that support sustained recovery. We advocate for trauma-informed, culturally embedded, and survivor centered frameworks that extend beyond short-term care to encompass economic empowerment, housing stability, and social reintegration. Drawing on case illustrations from across Africa, Europe, and Asia, we identify convergent practice elements, including evidence-based therapies (e.g., CBT, EMDR), survivor-led peer networks, and context-specific supports (such as faith-based and indigenous practices). Policy analysis reveals a persistent gap between legal commitments and the provision of funded, durable services. Our central recommendation is to enshrine rehabilitation as a legal right with dedicated financing, survivor co-design in policy processes, and accountability metrics, leveraging the momentum of the 2025 Palermo context and the proposed Sicily Declaration. Rehabilitation is not ancillary to justice; it is its test, ensuring survivors are not merely rescued, but restored to safety, dignity, and opportunity.

SOCIOCULTURAL DETERMINANTS OF CARE HOME UTILIZATION AMONG THE ELDERLY IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Nse-Abasi Edighienyong Edet, Victor Eyo Assi — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The services of care homes are not widely utilised by the elderly in Nigeria and other countries, particularly in culturally communal societies such as Akwa Ibom State, where demographic changes are observed. The study explores the sociocultural factors influencing elder care decisions across four purposively selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Akwa Ibom State, by employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected from 381 adult respondents using a structured questionnaire, while qualitative insights were derived from twelve (12) key informant interviews involving religious leaders, health workers, and community elders. Beliefs on filial obligation, spiritual continuity, and moral duty contribute to resistance to institutional care. Religious beliefs and community demands support these norms. The increasing readiness of care homes is influenced by such factors as urbanisation and education level. Challenges identified include affordability, regulatory gaps, and limited community awareness. The findings indicate that there has been a cultural shift of traditional caregiving towards formal eldercare. Therefore, an integrated system, which is composed of cultural beliefs, religious lobbying, and policy changes, is suggested. Lastly, the study has contributed to gerontology in sub-Saharan Africa by providing a culturally specific model of eldercare behaviour and resistance.

THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES OF PARENTAL CONTROL, PEER INFLUENCE, AND MEDIA EXPOSURE ON CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR AND ITS APPLICATION

Stephanie Saa-Ter Tsav — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study critically examines the theoretical perspectives on parental control, peer influence, and media exposure as they relate to criminal behavior. A comprehensive understanding of how these factors interrelate is indispensable for formulating effective interventions to mitigate crime and foster positive societal outcomes. Through the application of social learning theory, differential association theory, and social control theory, the study explores the strengths, limitations, and practical implications of each framework. Notably, the research reveals the complexities inherent in these theoretical models, highlighting their varying degrees of applicability to real-world scenarios. While social learning theory emphasizes the role of observation and reinforcement in behavior acquisition, differential association theory underscores the significance of social interactions in shaping deviant behavior. Social control theory, on the other hand, focuses on the societal mechanisms that limit criminal tendencies. By synthesising these perspectives, this study contributes to the ongoing scholarly debate on the root causes of criminal behaviour and offers valuable
insights for the development of evidence-based interventions and policies. These findings provide a critical resource for both academics and practitioners seeking to create safer and more resilient communities.

INFLUENCE OF NEGATIVE PEER PRESSURE AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE ON ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined the influence of negative peer pressure and substance abuse on antisocial behavior: the moderating role of resilience among secondary school students in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A sample of two hundred and seventy (270) students was used for the study. The participants’ ages ranged from 13 to 18 years, with 52.25% being female and 43.75% being male. The participants were administered the WHO Youth Drug Survey, the Peer Influence Scale Questionnaire-Revised, the Subtypes of Antisocial Behavior Questionnaire, and the Nicholson McBride Resilience Questionnaire. The study used a survey research design and multiple linear regressions for data analysis. The first hypothesis was accepted, indicating a significant prediction between negative peer pressure and antisocial behaviour among secondary school students in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Also, the second hypothesis was also accepted, indicating a significant prediction between substance abuse and antisocial behaviour among
secondary school students in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Furthermore, hypothesis three was also accepted, indicating a joint significant prediction between negative peer pressure and substance abuse on antisocial behaviour. Similarly, Hypothesis four was tested, and the result showed that resilience moderates the relationship between negative peer pressure and antisocial behaviour.
Lastly, the fifth hypothesis was accepted, indicating a significant moderation between substance abuse and antisocial behaviour. It is therefore recommended that the government should incorporate resilience-training programmes into the school curricula. Such programmes can include life skills education, emotional regulation training, problem-solving workshops, and peer mentoring schemes.

BUILDING A GENDER-SENSITIVE CULTURE OF PEACE THROUGH CRITICAL LITERACY AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN SELECT UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA

Regina Ekwelibe — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Nigerian society, from time immemorial, is a patriarchal society. It is a structure of a set of social relations with material base which enables men to dominate women. Women are relegated to the background, subjugated, discriminated as the weaker sex such that not all jobs, positions and offices are given to them despite the level of education, intellectual ability, experience in life, physical strength and financial status. There is a limited participation of women in decisionmaking positions in most sectors; segregation into certain activities; restricted opportunities for training, capacity-building and networking; How many women are included in the political and electoral processes, in national governance and the security structure processes? In most cases, they are placed under men. The average Nigerian woman is seen as an available object for prostitution, forced marriage, street hawking, instrument of wide-range trafficking and a misfit in the society. Research has shown that even in the universities, conflicts and violence arise as a result of gender disparity. Course representatives, presidents of the Student Union Government (SUG), the different clubs and societies in the universities are usually and preferably headed by males rather than females. These conflicts and violence either inside or outside the classroom usually affect the quality of teaching and learning, mutual relationship and peaceful co-existence. This study aims to estimate the causes and effects of gender disparity in the universities and proposes building a gender-sensitive culture of peace as the way forward through critical literacy. The study was based on the analysis of 50 structured questionnaires distributed among students and teachers in the select universities through random sampling. Critical literacy is proposed as the strategic tool for building a gender-sensitive culture of peace. It also proposes how teachers and students in the universities can make significant contributions to the transformation of conflicts and violence stemming from divisions, hierarchy of differences and inequalities of the society into peace.

REMOTE WORK, ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, AND SOCIAL BONDS IN ABUJA ORGANIZATIONS

Maryam Nasiru Sidi, Jaafar Abdulkadir — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Remote work has evolved from a temporary solution to a permanent workplace model in many parts of the world. Initiated by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has now become a key aspect of the modern workforce, transforming not only how people perform their jobs but also how they interact with colleagues, experience company culture, and establish professional relationships. This study reviewed the relevant literature, using symbolic interactionism as the theoretical framework. The pursuit to examine how remote work has influenced organizational culture among employees in some selected organizations and the way it impact the development and maintenance of social bonds among colleagues brings about the conduct of this research. In the course of this research, a qualitative research technique was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews to gain a deeper understanding of how employees perceive changes in workplace dynamics, team cohesion, and cultural values within remote or hybrid work settings. Therefore, this research found that the transition to remote work weakened the ability to internalize institutional norms, interpret workplace values, and develop a sense of organizational identity. It further shows that remote work not only reduces the frequency of informal social interaction but also erodes the depth of relationships and emotional connection among coworkers. The study recommends that organizations encourage the development of hybrid work models that blend remote flexibility with regular in-person interactions. They should implement mentorship and onboarding programs tailored specifically for remote staff, with an emphasis on new and junior employees.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE COMMON-SENSE MODEL AND BURDEN OF TREATMENT THEORY

Hussaini Yusuf Onawo — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This narrative review examines two theoretical frameworks in health psychology: the Common-Sense Model of Illness Representation (CSM) and the Burden of Treatment Theory (BOTT). Through systematic thematic analysis, this review explores how these models clarify patients' perceptions of illness and the practical demands of healthcare management. The CSM describes cognitive and emotional processes that shape understanding of illness, whereas BOTT addresses the cumulative workload patients face when managing chronic conditions. This review critically assesses the strengths, applications, weaknesses, and criticisms of both theories,
highlighting points of convergence and divergence. Findings suggest that integrating CSM and BOTT provides a comprehensive framework for understanding patient experiences, particularly in the management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes. The review concludes that combining these frameworks can inform patient-centred interventions that address both cognitive perceptions and
practical treatment burdens, ultimately enhancing adherence and health outcomes.

REST, RESTORATION, AND RENEWAL IN LEVITICUS 25

Emmanuel Chijioke Agoha, Grace Chinedum Kokey — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Africa’s deepening crises of socio-economic inequality, ecological degradation, and moral disintegration reveal the insufficiency of secular sustainability models that lack theological grounding. Yet scholarship has not adequately retrieved the Jubilee legislation of Leviticus 25 as a normative framework for African transformation beyond ritual or historical interpretation. This study, therefore, examines the theological logic of rest, restoration, and renewal in Leviticus 25 and its implications for Africa’s sustainable future. The paper is guided by the questions to show how the Jubilee legislation in Leviticus 25 relates to the motifs of rest שבת (shabbath), restoration ) שוב shuv), and renewal חָדַשׁ (chadash) relate to Africa. Methodologically, it employs a qualitative and interpretive approach that integrates exegetical analysis of the Hebrew text with contextual theological reflection. The study is theoretically grounded in covenantal-restorative justice theology, which emphasizes God’s ordering of communal life, ethical land stewardship, and human dignity within covenant relationship. Findings indicate that the Jubilee offers a comprehensive theological and ethical model that integrates Sabbath spirituality, distributive justice, ecological renewal, and communal identity. The paper concludes that a Jubilee-informed theological vision addresses a critical gap in African sustainability discourse by offering a holistic paradigm of rest,
restorative justice, and ecological renewal grounded in covenant theology.

PERCEIVED ORGANIZATIONAL JUSTICE AND QUALITY OF WORK-LIFE OF ACADEMICS

Rebecca Ngozi Egwuenu, Mmesomachukwu Favour Madubueze — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study explored the perceived organizational justice and quality of work-life of academics, examining the moderating role of self-efficacy. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study, and a sample of 132 academics of the University of Delta, Agbor, participated in the study. Three standardized questionnaires were used for data collection, namely, Colquitt’s Organizational Justice Scale, Walton’s Quality of Work-life Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested using multiple regression, simple linear regression, and moderated regression analysis. Results showed a significant joint influence of
perceived organizational justice on quality of work-life, and significant independent contributions of distributive justice and interpersonal justice whereas the results for procedural justice and informational justice were not significant. Furthermore, self-efficacy showed a significant influence on quality of work-life. However, the interaction term between organisational justice and quality of work-life was not significant. The overall model explained 37.8% of the variance in quality of work-life. Study findings imply that self-efficacy does not buffer or sufficiently compensate for institutional justice deficiencies. It was recommended that the universities prioritise equitable distribution of work and benefits.

PSYCHOSOCIAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC PREDICTORS OF COUNSELLING HELP-SEEKING AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN IJEBU-ODE, OGUN STATE

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Globally, adolescence is considered a critical developmental stage, with recent concerns highlighting a decline in adolescents’ mental well-being, largely due to social media’s influence, leading to increased mental health issues and psychosocial problems requiring
professional intervention. Despite these, many adolescents do not seek help, and those who do often face barriers. This study investigated the psychosocio-demographic predictors of counselling helpseeking behaviour among Senior Secondary School students in Ijebu-Ode. Using a correlational survey design, 247 randomly sampled students completed validated measures assessing helpseeking behavior, belief in counseling, counselor’s disposition, fear of stigma, and self-disclosure risk. Three null hypotheses were tested at .05 level of significance, and results revealed significant negative correlations between birth order, being a day or boarder student, belief in counselling effectiveness, and help-seeking behaviour (r = -.23, -.15, -.22) respectively. Conversely, birth order
correlated positively with self-disclosure risk (r = .14). No significant relationships were found with age, fear of stigma, counselor’s disposition, or school type. Psychosocio-demographic variables jointly accounted for 63.8% of the variance in help-seeking behavior (R² = .638, p < .001). Psychological factors also independently influenced help-seeking, whereas socio-demographic variables did not. The study concluded that psychological variables significantly predicted students’ help-seeking behaviour, and to enhance help-seeking, schools should promote awareness, improve counselling services, and collaborate with stakeholders to reduce stigma.

FALSE CONFESSIONS IN NIGERIAN POLICE CUSTODY

Francisca Nkechi Enenta — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study critically examines the issue of false confessions among suspects in police custody, focusing on the psychological, social, and systemic factors contributing to this phenomenon, particularly within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. Through a theoretical and
literature-based review, the paper explores how coercive interrogation methods, authority pressure, and psychological vulnerability lead to false confessions. Drawing on key theoretical frameworks, including Psychological Coercion Theory, Social Influence Theory, Cognitive Dissonance Theory, and Labeling Theory, the study synthesizes evidence suggesting that prolonged interrogations, the
absence of legal representation, and manipulation tactics such as promises of leniency or threats of harm are significant factors in producing false confessions. The review also highlights the vulnerability of certain suspect groups, such as minors or individuals with cognitive impairments, and the exacerbating role of weak institutional safeguards and poor training for investigators. Key
recommendations include adopting video-recorded interrogations, requiring the presence of legal counsel during questioning, and enhancing police officer training in ethical, evidence-based interrogation techniques. This theoretical review underscores the need for systemic reforms in policing practices, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria, to reduce the incidence of false confessions and protect the integrity of the justice system.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN OHAJI/EGBEMA, IMO STATE (2010–2020)

Michael C. N. Ihemadu, Eugene Oguwuike Osimiri — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This paper examines the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives implemented by oil and gas companies in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State, Nigeria, with a specific emphasis on their impact on youth empowerment from 2010 to 2020. Utilizing a robust methodology that includes a thorough review of academic literature, governmental reports, documentation from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and various media sources, the research identifies a diverse array of CSR interventions. These include scholarship programs, vocational training, infrastructure development, microfinance opportunities, and community engagement processes. The study critically evaluates both the scope and sustainability of these initiatives, assessing not just their geographical reach but also their capacity to foster enduring change within the community. It examines several structural barriers that hinder the effectiveness of these CSR efforts in promoting youth employment and entrepreneurship, including project discontinuity, insufficient community involvement, inadequate monitoring and evaluation systems, environmental degradation, and governance complexities. Findings indicate a mixed outcome; while companies have documented a multitude of community projects, significant improvements in youth employment rates and sustainable entrepreneurial outcomes are largely absent. These shortcomings can be attributed to the identified barriers, which have hindered the long-term effectiveness of CSR activities. In conclusion, the paper presents a series of strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of CSR initiatives. It highlights the necessity of co-designing programs in partnership with the youth to ensure that they are aligned with their needs and aspirations. Furthermore, it advocates for the implementation of comprehensive impact evaluation frameworks to effectively monitor progress and outcomes.

TRAUMA EXPOSURE, EMOTION REGULATION, AND NEUROTICISM AS PREDICTORS OF SLEEP QUALITY AMONG MILITARY PERSONNEL AT ARMED FORCES COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE (AFCSC), JAJI

Priscilia Ogechukwu Odoh, Joshua Chiroma Gandi, Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Ogboji — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study explored how trauma exposure, emotion regulation, and neuroticism predict sleep quality among military personnel at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 291 commissioned officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force through standardized psychological instruments. Data was analyzed using Multiple Hierarchical Regression. Findings revealed that trauma exposure had the most substantial influence on poor sleep quality (β = .62, p < .001), followed by expressive suppression (β = .48, p < .001) and neuroticism (β = .18, p < .001). Surprisingly, cognitive reappraisal, often regarded as an adaptive strategy, was also associated with poor sleep (β = .37, p < .001), suggesting that prolonged cognitive effort under chronic stress may worsen sleep disturbance. The combined influence of the predictors explained a large proportion of the variance in sleep quality, indicating that sleep dysfunction in the military extends beyond physical fatigue to
include psychological strain and maladaptive coping. It was concluded that trauma exposure, emotion regulation style, and personality factors jointly shape sleep health in high-stress occupational settings. Therefore, military health programs should incorporate trauma-informed counselling, adaptive emotion regulation training, and personality-based resilience interventions to
enhance sleep quality and overall psychological well-being among Nigerian military personnel.

GENDER, FAITH AND FERTILITY

Hope Imuetinyan Iguodala-Cole — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Gender norms, religious beliefs, and socio-cultural expectations continue to shape fertility patterns in Nigeria. In peri-urban communities like Masaka, Uke, and Auta Balefi, where rural traditions meet urban influences, reproductive choices frequently reflect negotiations between faith-based commitments and socio-economic realities. Despite various reproductive health interventions, fertility rates remain relatively high, highlighting the persistent influence of religion and gender relations. However, there is limited comparative evidence on how different faith traditions shape reproductive decision-making in such transitional settings. Using mixed methods in three peri-urban communities (N=450), the study demonstrates that religious teachings and gender norms significantly influence reproductive decision-making, while education and economic pressures increasingly promote collaborative choices among partners. Guided by feminist theory, symbolic interactionism, and the sociology of religion, the study integrates household surveys with in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions The study contributes to understanding how religion and gender intersect in shaping fertility choices and calls for culturally sensitive, gender-responsive reproductive health strategies that align with faith-based values.

ALEXITHYMIA, LONELINESS, AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG ADOLESCENTS LIVING WITH HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study investigated the predictive role of the facets of alexithymia and loneliness on suicidal ideation among adolescents living with HIV in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a cross-sectional design from a sample of 328 HIV-positive participants (172(52.4%) females and 156(47.6%) males). While the hospitals used for the study were randomly selected, the participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. The participants' ages ranged from 13 to 19 years, with a mean age of 15.97 years. Participants completed self-reported measures such as the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) by Bagby, Parker, and Taylor (1994); the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3) developed by Russell et al. (1980) and the Suicide Ideation Scale (SIS) by Rudd (1987). Four hypotheses were postulated and tested. Hierarchical multiple regression results showed that all the facets of alexithymia (difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings, and external oriented thinking, and loneliness positively predicted suicidal ideation among adolescents living with HIV in Imo state, Nigeria. It is thus recommended that clinicians develop strategies aimed at improving emotional awareness and communication skills which can empower individuals to navigate and express their feelings while also creating a supportive environment for them to thrive.

DEPRESSION, PERCEIVED STRESS, AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AS PREDICTORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AMONG VICTIMS IN MARARABA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Akeem Adekunle Kenku, Shitu Shuiabu Umar, Abubakar Musa Tafida — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study investigated the predictive influence of depression, perceived stress, and perceived social support as predictors of domestic violence among victims in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, involving 69 respondents
(40 males and 29 females) selected through purposive sampling. Standardized self-report instruments were used to assess depression, perceived stress, perceived social support, and experiences of domestic violence. Data were analyzed using simple and multiple regression statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results from the demographic analysis showed that a majority of respondents were aged between 20 and 30 years (43.5%), predominantly male (58.0%), and mainly of Muslim (53.6%) background. The regression analyses revealed that each psychological variable significantly predicted domestic violence.
Specifically, depression was a significant positive predictor of domestic violence, accounting for 23.8% of the variance, perceived stress also showed a strong positive prediction, explaining 32.0% of the variance while perceived social support was a significant negative
predictor, accounting for 5.6% of the variance. The joint analysis of depression, stress, and social support yielded a significant combined prediction of domestic violence, indicating that these psychological factors collectively explained 32.9% of the total variance in domestic violence among respondents. The findings suggest that individuals with higher levels of depression and perceived stress are more likely to engage in or experience domestic violence, while greater social support reduces vulnerability to such violence. The study underscores the importance of integrating psychosocial interventions, including mental-health screening and social-support
strengthening, into domestic violence prevention and response programs in Keffi and similar Nigerian communities. Recommendations were made for policymakers and mental-health practitioners to prioritize early detection of depressive symptoms and stress, and to expand community-based support networks for victims and at-risk populations.

FAKE NEWS DISSEMINATION ON WHATSAPP

Sikiru Olayemi Abdullahi, Temitope Seun biyeye, Bashir Amoda Ajijola — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The proliferation of fake news through encrypted messaging platforms poses growing challenges to digital communication governance. This paper systematically reviews scholarly evidence on how technological, behavioural, and policy factors influence fake news dissemination on WhatsApp between 2018 and 2024. Following PRISMA guidelines, 28 peer-reviewed studies were identified through Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed using search strings such as “WhatsApp misinformation”, “fake news dissemination”, “credibility”, “speed”, and “information accuracy”. Inclusion criteria comprised English-language empirical studies published
between 2018 and 2024. Data were synthesised thematically across four analytical dimensions: credibility, speed, accessibility, and accuracy. Results suggest that WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption, forwarding features, and group dynamics enable misinformation to circulate rapidly within trusted peer networks. Psychological factors—particularly confirmation bias, emotional triggers, and social trust—further accelerate virality. Platform interventions such as forwarding limits and message labelling mitigate spread only marginally, as users often bypass restrictions. Evidence suggests that the problem is more pronounced in regions with low media literacy, where WhatsApp serves as a primary information source. Policymakers, platform designers, and educators must collaborate to develop culturally responsive, privacy-preserving interventions. Strengthening digital literacy and integrating metadata-based detection mechanisms that can curb virality without compromising encryption. This study consolidates six years of global research, offering a comprehensive synthesis of the mechanisms, behavioural drivers, and policy gaps underpinning misinformation diffusion on WhatsApp.

STATE RESPONSES AND THE DYNAMICS OF COMMUNAL CONFLICT IN EBONYI STATE

Gilbert Chukwu Aro, Faith Ngozi Onyekere, Anselem Onyekachi Okolie, Samuel Nnadi — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In recent decades, conflict has been on the increase globally, and its dimensions touch on ethnic, religious, political, economic, nationalistic, and territorial contestations. One of the major reasons for this disturbing rise in conflict cases across the world is land and boundary disputes. Land constitutes an important resource that humans struggle to acquire for themselves, such that more is never enough. Over time, the communal conflict between Eyigba and Eyibichiri communities in Izzi and Ikwo Local Government Areas, respectively, has claimed lives and properties. More than 50 people have lost their lives to this protracted conflict, many have been
rendered homeless, and socio-economic activities have been disrupted, even forcing the staff and students of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ikwo, to stay away from school for fear of violence. The study sets out to examine the responses of the Ebonyi State Government under the leadership of David Nweze Umahi to this protracted violent conflict. The study is descriptive, and data were
obtained from secondary sources, using the Opportunity Structure Theory as its framework of analysis. The findings reveal that the lack of extensive and systematic peace-building and advocacy blueprints, as well as the reactive rather than proactive mechanisms employed by the government, are responsible for the continual outbreaks. The study recommends preventive mechanisms such as
land and boundary control laws and sustainable peace-building blueprints to ensure lasting peace in the state.