INVOLVEMENT OF FULANI HERDSMEN IN TRANS-BORDER CRIMES AND ITS IMPLICATION ON NIGERIA’S SECURITY

Abstract

This study examines the implications of trans-border crimes and National Security in Nigeria. Despite the efforts of border security agencies in Nigeria, the nation’s borders are oftentimes described as porous, allowing sorts of cross border criminal activities such as illegal migrants, terrorist, and insurgents. Against this backdrop, this study is specifically concerned with the objective of addressing the question: Does the spate of trans-border crimes undermine national security in Nigeria? Relying on the fragile state approach as a theoretical guide, the study investigates the security challenges posed by trans-border activities of Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria. Documentary method of data collection based on secondary source was adopted. Correspondingly, Content Analysis was used as our data analysis; and our research design is time series research design. The study finds that the spate of trans-border crimes undermines national security in Nigeria. Among others, the study recommends reconstituting the Nigerian state in such a way as to be proactive in dealing with the rampant cross border criminal activities. The paper concluded that trans-border criminal activities operating throughout the world pose increasing concerns for the international community. The activities of these criminal elements especially illegal Fulani migrants who use Hausa language to penetrate at our borders affect our joint security as well as the stability of our nation and the future progress against the erosions of public trust and core democratic values.