PEOPLE PERCEPTIONS AND ATTITUDES TOWARD REGIONAL SECURITY GROUPS IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

PEOPLE PERCEPTIONS AND ATTITUDES TOWARD REGIONAL SECURITY GROUPS IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

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Background of the study

Regional security groups have become increasingly significant in addressing the complex security challenges faced by various regions worldwide. In the context of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, the role of such groups has been particularly crucial given the persistent threat posed by insurgent activities, particularly those of Boko Haram. Understanding the perceptions and attitudes of people towards these security groups is essential for evaluating their effectiveness and fostering community support.

Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has been at the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency since 2009. This insurgency has led to a humanitarian crisis characterized by widespread displacement, loss of lives, and destruction of infrastructure (Zenn, 2018). In response, various regional security groups, including the Nigerian military, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and local vigilante groups like the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have been deployed to combat these insurgents and restore peace (Walker, 2016).

The Nigerian military and regional allies have played pivotal roles in countering Boko Haram’s activities. The MNJTF, a coalition of troops from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin, has been instrumental in conducting joint operations to weaken the insurgents' capabilities (Onuoha, 2016). Additionally, local vigilante groups such as the CJTF have emerged as crucial actors by leveraging their local knowledge to support military operations and provide intelligence (Amnesty International, 2015).

The effectiveness of these security groups is significantly influenced by the perceptions and attitudes of the local population. Positive public perceptions can enhance cooperation and information sharing between the community and security personnel, while negative perceptions can lead to mistrust and hinder security operations (Hansen, 2017). Studies have shown that community support is vital for the success of counter-insurgency efforts, as it can aid in identifying insurgent hideouts and reducing the insurgents' support base (Bartolotta, 2015).

Several factors influence people's perceptions and attitudes towards regional security groups in Maiduguri. These include the groups' operational conduct, respect for human rights, effectiveness in providing security, and their relationship with the local community (Zenn, 2018). Incidents of human rights abuses and collateral damage during security operations can severely undermine public trust and support (Human Rights Watch, 2016). Conversely, initiatives that involve the community in security planning and ensure accountability of security personnel can foster positive perceptions and enhance cooperation (International Crisis Group, 2017).

Understanding the perceptions and attitudes of the people of Maiduguri towards regional security groups is crucial for the success of counter-insurgency efforts in Borno State. By examining these perceptions, policymakers and security agencies can identify areas for improvement in their strategies and operations, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable security solutions.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The perception and attitudes of people towards regional security groups in Maiduguri, Borno State, have become a critical issue in the context of ongoing security challenges in the region. Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has been a focal point of insurgent activities, particularly by Boko Haram, leading to significant security concerns and humanitarian crises. Regional security groups, such as the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have emerged as key players in the local security landscape. However, the effectiveness and legitimacy of these groups heavily depend on the perceptions and attitudes of the local populace.

Previous studies indicate that public perception plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of security measures and the overall success of counter-insurgency efforts (Okolie & Ogu, 2018). Positive perceptions can lead to greater community support, cooperation, and information sharing, which are vital for the success of security operations (Onuoha, 2015). Conversely, negative perceptions may result in distrust, non-cooperation, and even hostility towards security forces, thereby undermining their efforts and exacerbating insecurity (Agbiboa, 2015).

In Maiduguri, the perception of regional security groups is influenced by various factors, including the groups' conduct, their relationship with the community, and their ability to provide security effectively (Murtada, 2017). There is a need to understand how these factors shape public attitudes and the implications for security policies and practices in the region. The lack of empirical data on this topic makes it difficult to formulate policies that can enhance the effectiveness of regional security groups and improve the overall security situation in Maiduguri.

Therefore, this study aims to investigate the perceptions and attitudes of the people of Maiduguri towards regional security groups. By doing so, it seeks to provide insights into how these perceptions affect the functioning and legitimacy of security efforts, ultimately contributing to more informed and effective security strategies in Borno State.

1.3 Objective of the study

1. To assess the general perception and attitude of regional security groups among residents of Maiduguri.
2. To find out the extent socioeconomic status, personal experiences with security incidents, transparency and communication from security groups, and media exposure influence the attitudes of residents towards regional security groups.
3. To evaluate the level of trust and confidence the residents have in regional security groups.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the general perceptions and attitude of residents in Maiduguri towards regional security groups?
2. To what extent do socioeconomic status, personal experiences with security incidents, transparency and communication from security groups, and media exposure influence the attitudes of residents towards regional security groups?
3. To what extent do residents of Maiduguri trust and have confidence in regional security groups?

1.5 Research hypotheses

Null Hypothesis (H0): The majority of residents in Maiduguri have a negative perceptions and attitudes toward regional security groups in Maiduguri, Borno State

Alternative Hypothesis (H1): The majority of residents in Maiduguri have a positive perceptions and attitudes toward regional security groups in Maiduguri, Borno State

1.6 Significance of the study

Policy Formulation and Implementation:

This study will provide valuable insights for policymakers and security agencies. Understanding people's perceptions and attitudes toward regional security groups will help in formulating and implementing effective security strategies that align with the local population's expectations and concerns. This alignment can lead to more community-supported and sustainable security initiatives.

Community Engagement and Trust Building:

By exploring the community’s views, the study can identify the factors that enhance or undermine trust in regional security groups. This understanding can be used to design community engagement programs that foster trust and collaboration between the security forces and the local population, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of security operations in Maiduguri.

Improvement of Security Practices:

The research findings can highlight areas where regional security groups may need to improve their practices. Whether it’s in communication, operational tactics, or community relations, this feedback can be crucial for security groups to adapt and improve their methods, leading to better security outcomes and reduced violence.

Academic Contribution:

This study will add to the existing body of knowledge on security and community relations in conflict zones. It will provide empirical data and analysis specific to Maiduguri, which can be referenced in future research, policy analysis, and academic discourse. This can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of regional security dynamics in Nigeria and similar contexts.

Enhanced Public Awareness:

By disseminating the findings through public reports, seminars, and workshops, the study can raise awareness about the role and perception of regional security groups among the general populace. This increased awareness can promote informed public discourse on security issues and encourage proactive community involvement in security matters.

1.7 Scope of the study

This study focuses to assess the general perception and attitude of regional security groups among residents of Maiduguri, find out the extent socioeconomic status, personal experiences with security incidents, transparency and communication from security groups, and media exposure influence the attitudes of residents towards regional security groups, and evaluate the level of trust and confidence the residents have in regional security groups. Hence residents of Maiduguri shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:

Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.

Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.

Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.

1.9 Definition of terms

Perception:

The way in which individuals interpret and understand the actions, intentions, and effectiveness of regional security groups based on their personal experiences and information received from various sources.

Attitude:

The settled way of thinking or feeling about regional security groups, typically reflected in a person's behavior and expressed through their opinions and reactions towards these groups.

Regional Security Groups:

Organized entities, either government-affiliated or community-based, that operate within a specific geographic region to provide security, maintain order, and combat threats such as insurgency, terrorism, and criminal activities. In the context of Maiduguri, this may include groups like the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and other local vigilante units.

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