IRREGULAR TRANS-BORDER MOVEMENTS AND PERSONAL SECURITY IN KURMI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF TARABA STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of trans-border movements on personal security in Kurmi Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. With increasing security concerns arising from such movements, the research aims to identify effective measures to mitigate associated security challenges. The Broken Windows Theory serves as the theoretical framework, while a descriptive survey method was employed, involving 400 respondents from a population of 83,068. Both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were utilized, and data analysis was conducted using mean scores and standard deviation, along with hypotheses tested via multiple regression analysis. Findings indicate that trans-border movements pose security threats, including human trafficking, sexual assault, harassment, armed robbery, and kidnapping. To address these issues, measures such as forming vigilante groups, implementing community policing, and engaging international organizations in border security were identified. Recommendations also include the deployment of drones, installation of closed-circuit television cameras, fostering local community policing initiatives, and establishing collaborative measures with neighboring Cameroon to enhance personal security in the region.