ECONOMIC HARDSHIP AND THE RISE OF CRIMINALITY IN WUKARI, TARABA STATE

Abstract

This study was designed to find out the impact of economic hardship on the rise of criminal 
activities in wukari, causes of economic hardship, causes of crime, and solutions to economic 
hardship in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. The researcher consulted existing 
literatures about economic hardships, recession, and crime. Robert K. Merton’s Strain theory 
was used to explain the strain experienced by people as a result of economic hardship which 
makes people resolve to commit crimes. The documentary method was used to collect data for the 
study. The study found that economic hardship has a significant effect on the rise of criminal 
activities in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. Finally, based on these findings, 
the study recommends that the government should bring back fuel subsidies or set up modalities. 
where by people will receive some kind of support and relief in the economy, the government 
at the national level should work towards empowering the naira over the dollar and, citizens 
must also make the decision to embrace a discipline and morally just way of life that is free from 
crime no matter the condition and look towards innovation, creativity and, to think of ways of 
effecting positive change in negative situations.