Youth Restiveness and Insecurity in Nigeria: The Case of Illegal Oil Bunkering and Violence in Igbo-Olomu Community

Abstract

This study examines the plight of victims of youth restiveness in Igbo-Olomu which previous studies on youth restiveness have not examined. The study was conducted at Igbo-Olomu community where violent acts were perpetrated by restive youth who have been involved in illegal oil bunkering in the community for years. Data were gathered via in-depth interview. Findings show that violent attacks were unleashed on the residents of Igbo-Olomu community by poor and jobless youth with differing ethnic background who engage in illegal oil bunkering in the community. Thus, the study argues that communities and law enforcement agencies should take urgent steps to uproot known criminal gangs from the inception before they grows into intractable formidable forces; and residents should also desist from aiding and abetting criminal activities.