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Author(s):
Editor in Chief.
Page No :
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African Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities Research, Volume 7 Issue 3, Cover Page
Abstract
African Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities Research, Volume 7 Issue 3, Cover Page
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Author(s):
Udeogu Arinze Christian, Onyeizugbe Chinedu Uzochukwu.
Page No : 1-13
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Intergroup Conflict and Turnover Intention among Lecturers in Public Universities in Anambra State.
Abstract
Intergroup conflict has caused many employees to leave their jobs with ranging consequences on organizations’ operations. Based on this, the study examines the relationship that exists between intergroup conflict and turnover intention in Anambra State Universities, using Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK) and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU). ements with Academic unions in order to forestall future occurrences of industrial action.The Krejcie and Morgan formula was used to determine the sample size of 344. The data was analyzed using a simple regression model, while ANOVA was used to test the hypothesis. The results showed that in Anambra State’s public universities, intergroup conflict and turnover intention have a statistically significant and positive association. Thus, the analysis suggests that the Federal Government should always honour agreements.
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Author(s):
Egwuonwu Helen Adeola .
Page No : 14-23
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Effectiveness of Crop Farmers’ Use of Indigenous Knowledge on Land Degradation Control Practices in Imo State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study analyzed the effectiveness of the crop farmers’ use of indigenous knowledge on land degradation control practices in Imo State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used in the selection of 180 crop farmers for the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire while analysis of the data was done using mean, percentages, and the multiple regression analysis. Crop farmers perceived zero tillage to help in conserving soil texture (x̄=3.52), replanting of deforested areas enables to maintain vegetative cover (x̄=3.45), use of organic manure to improved soil’s organic matter contents (x̄=3.42) and controlling both water and wind erosions by making ridges (x̄=3.30) and rain water harvesting (x̄=3.10) as highly effective in controlling soil degradation. Age, marital status, educational level, household size, monthly income, membership of association, extension contact and farm size) had a significant influence on their perceived effectiveness of use of the indigenous knowledge on land degradation control. The major constraints faced by crop farmers were inadequate fund to practices land degradation control practices (99.44%) and limited availability of farmland (98.31%), poor extension contact (86.44%), poor knowledge and education of land degradation control processes (86.44%), poor government support (81.92%) and poor access to information (75.14%). The study concludes that crop farmers experienced soil degradation and were using practicing indigenous land degradation although they were constrained by some factors. Therefore, crop farmers should come together to transform their various indigenous knowledge and control practices thereby discussing and looking for the best way on how to tackle their peculiar land degradation challenges.
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Author(s):
Emmanuel Selome Fasinu, Beatrice Jesutayo Titilayo Olaniyan, Adebayo Ola Afolaranmi (Ph.D.).
Page No : 24-38
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Digital Diplomacy in the Age of Social Media: Challenges and Opportunities for Crisis Communication
Abstract
Digital technologies have revolutionised the way diplomats and government officials communicate with domestic and international stakeholders during crises. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study examines how digital technologies, particularly social media, shape the nature and effectiveness of crisis communication in diplomacy. Drawing on interviews with diplomats, contents analysis of social media data, and case studies of international crises, the study identifies key factors that influence the use and impact of digital technologies in crisis communication. The findings of the study concludes that digital technologies present both opportunities and challenges for crisis communication in diplomacy. On the one hand, digital diplomacy can enhance communication with stakeholders, increase transparency and accountability, and foster international cooperation. On the other hand, it can also amplify misinformation, exacerbate tensions, and undermine traditional diplomatic channels. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for policymakers, diplomats, and scholars interested in leverage digital technologies for effective crisis communication. The study also highlights several implications for further research. First, more attention should be paid to the role of social media algorithms and content moderation policies in shaping public discourse during crises. Second, future research should examine the difference in digital diplomacy practices across cultures and countries, as well as the impact of language barriers and cultural differences on crisis communication. Finally, this study emphasises the importance of developing ethical and effective guidelines for the use of digital technologies in crisis communication, taking into account the need for transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.
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Author(s):
Esara Umoh Victor, Asuquo Mfon Effiong, Udoh Anietie Jonah.
Page No : 39-47
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Gambling and Deviance Behaviour Among Youths in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Gambling is a trending problem among the youths that usually result in suicide attempts and self-harm among gamblers. Gambling also prompt our youths to engage in theft and other deviance behaviour. This study was conducted to investigate why gamblers are prone to suicide and other deviant behaviour. Survey research method was adopted for this study and respondents were selected using multiple sampling techniques, this include purposive, snowball and simple random sampling techniques. Primary data were collected through interview and participant observation, while secondary data were collected from extant literature. The study applied Frustration-Aggression Theory in order to explain the relationship between gambling, suicide and deviant behaviour among gamblers. The Concept and empirical studies reviewed from other research works were used for inference, conclusion and recommendations. Findings from the Study shows that gambling related debts contributes to suicide and suicidality. The study further shown that gambling is seen as a coping mechanism to get rich very quick. The study recommends (amongst others) that government should ban all gambling/betting companies in Nigeria in order to reduce suicidality and criminality among Gamblers. Government should subject all addicted gamblers to Psychological test to ensure that they are free from deviant behaviour.
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Author(s):
Daniel Odekunle Odetayo, Adeola Abiodun Adeoti.
Page No : 46-61
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The Artistic and Aesthetic Analysis of the Costume of Egungun Elewe in Igbomina Land.
Abstract
Egungun is believed to be a visible appearance of the dead ancestors as spirits who occasionally revisit the living for festivals. During this visit, the egungun is clothed with beautiful attire that will become the embodiment of attraction. Despite several studies on egungun in Yoruba land, there is no comprehensive study on this type of egungun, thus creating a dearth of literature in this area of art history and thereby leaving in-depth research on the costumes of egungun elewe of Igbomona land. This study is targeted on the artistic and aesthetics analysis of egungun elewe of Igbomina land aiming to promote the Yoruba decorative art to document the findings in the annals of history. The study is descriptive as each of the items of the egungun elewe’s costume is analyzed using the qualitative method. Findings reveal that the role, functions, and cultural significance of the egungun elewe of Igbomina land have aesthetic qualities different from other forms of egungun known in other parts of Africa.
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Author(s):
Alabi David O. (Ph.D.), Tukasi Emmanuel O. (Ph.D.), Tunase Christian T., Olufemi Olukunle J., Olowokere Adenike F., Isaac Ubong I..
Page No : 62-75
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Isaiah 28:11-13 and Tongues as Spiritual Languages in Christian Liturgy in The Nigerian Context.
Abstract
This paper examined the spiritual phenomenon of the use of strange or unlearned tongues in Christian liturgy in Nigerian context. Lots of arguments have been generated and writers have delved into this issue from both academic and spiritual angles but not from the liturgical perspectives of it within the ambit of Pentecostal liturgical speaking in tongues,. Even though there are divided opinions on its relevance outside the Pentecostals, it forms a unique feature among the Pentecostals. It explores the nexus of the use of tongues and Christian liturgy and how it provided a spiritual link between the human and the supersensible world. The phenomenological and participatory observatory methods were adopted in the study. The purpose of the study was to inform the readers that Nigerian Pentecostal Christianity also countenances African cosmological views about supersensible world and adopted use of spiritual languages to communicate with the incorporeal world. Theory adopted was Intercultural Hermeneutics, which gave room for the nexus between the biblical teaching and contextualization of such within African setting by virtue of their similarities. Finding revealed that speaking in tongues is crucial to Nigerian Pentecostal Christianity, incorporated into their worship, strongly encouraged both at congregational and personal worship and abused to an extent. The conclusions are drawn on the note that human language is given by God and in the absence of spiritual language, the liturgy is still acceptable and worshippers should not feel inferior to those who are gifted in tongues.
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Author(s):
Zenzo Lusaba Dube, Funa Moyo , Mkhanyiseli N. Ncube.
Page No : 76-86
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A Comparative Assessment of Antiretroviral Therapy Patients’ Support Groups in Mangwe and Nkulumane Districts of Zimbabwe.
Abstract
The article assesses the role Support Groups (SGs) for patients on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Mangwe and Nkulumane districts of Zimbabwe. Data collection was qualitative in nature through the inductive means of interviews, focus group discussion and questionnaires. Stratified random sampling was used. St. Anne’s Brunapeg Hospital and Plumtree District Hospital (for Mangwe) were each classed as strata. Only one clinic offers ART services in Nkulumane and this served as a strata. Fourteen SGs were interviewed as focus group discussions and one hundred and six as questionnaires. The empirical findings reveal that SGs are of critical value in the ART programme. They provide inter alia emotional support, peer counselling, information on ARVs, access to financial support and training. The SGs are vital in the ART programme and are in dire need of funding.
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Author(s):
Joseph Aigbolosimon Famous.
Page No : 87-91
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The Socio-Economic Characteristics and Challenges of Homeless Youth in Maiduguri and Lagos: A Comparative Study.
Abstract
Homelessness is a pervasive and multifaceted global issue affecting societies across varied economic landscapes. This study provides a critical and extensive examination of youth homelessness in Maiduguri and Lagos, Nigeria. By analysing socio-economic characteristics, pathways into homelessness, living conditions, health challenges, and experiences of social discrimination, the study underscores the importance of tailored interventions considering regional variations and the diverse needs of homeless youth populations. The findings highlight both commonalities and disparities, reflecting the complex interplay of socio-economic factors and regional dynamics, and provide valuable insights for developing effective policies and interventions.
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Author(s):
Nwosu Ifeoma Chidinma, Ndu-Anunobi Unoma Gladys, Ifeoma Priscilla Udegbunam, Chidi E. Nwokike (Ph.D.).
Page No : 92-105
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Critical Evaluation of the Effect of Outsourcing on Nigeria’s Workforce Development: A Content Analysis.
Abstract
This study critically examines the effect of outsourcing on workforce development in Nigeria using a content analysis approach. The research is framed within systems theory, which views Nigeria's workforce development as a complex system influenced by various interconnected components, including outsourcing, economic conditions, education and training, government policies, labour market dynamics, and organizational strategies. The empirical review explores the effects of outsourcing on organizational performance, employee commitment, and competitive advantage in Nigeria. Key findings indicate that outsourcing can lead to cost savings, improved efficiency, and access to specialized expertise, contributing positively to organizational performance. However, significant negative impacts are also identified, including underpayment, job insecurity, violation of workers' rights, diminished employee commitment, and adverse effects on the local economy. Despite the potential benefits of outsourcing, such as cost reduction and technological advancements, the study underscores the need to balance these benefits against the negative impacts on workers. Recommendations include enforcing labour laws to ensure fair compensation, providing equal treatment for core and contract staff, empowering outsourced workers through unionization, enhancing anti-discrimination protections, fostering emotional attachment and commitment among workers, and promoting local job creation to mitigate the adverse effects of outsourcing on the local economy.
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Author(s):
Bassey Andrew Ubong, Ucheanya Florence .
Page No : 106-119
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Broadcasters’ Management of Social Media Platforms: A Study of Berekete Family.
Abstract
This study examines the management of social media platforms by broadcasters in Berekete Family. Employing the Technological Determinism Theory, the research uses focus group discussions and interviews as its primary methodologies. Through availability sampling, seven interviewees and one focus group were selected. The findings reveal that Berekete Family broadcasters use a range of social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Facebook, Pinterest, Tumblr, Facebook Live Audio Room, and WeChat, among others such as TikTok, Google Business Messenger, Snapchat, Quora, Reddit, Medium, Ustream, Shopify X, and Google Engage. The study also reveals that broadcasters within Berekete Family screen materials before posting them on social media and analyse the profiles of those they repost from, in order to enhance the quality of their content and avoid dissemination of misinformation. Additionally, the research identifies several challenges faced by broadcasters in using social media, including misinformation, disinformation, weaponisation of social media, privacy concerns, and filter bubbles. The study recommends among others that broadcasters should intensify their efforts in managing social media platforms due to the high prevalence of misinformation and privacy concerns associated with social media. The dynamic nature of social media requires broadcasters to remain vigilant and proactive in combating misinformation and safeguarding privacy rights. Strategies such as thorough content screening, fact-checking, and promoting transparency can help mitigate these risks and ensure the dissemination of accurate and reliable information.
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Author(s):
Bassey Andrew Ubong.
Page No : 120-134
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Audience Evaluation of INEC Half Hour Programme on AIT and Voter Education: Focus on The 2023 General Elections
Abstract
The correlation between media and voter education is undeniable, with television emerging as a significant platform for disseminating political discourse aimed at fostering civic engagement within societies. This research endeavours to scrutinize the audience's perception of the INEC HALF Hour Programme broadcasted on AIT concerning voter education, specifically concentrating on the dynamics of the 2023 general elections. Employing a survey research design, data were collected from residents residing in Lafia metropolis, constituting the target population. The study operated within the conceptual framework of the Cognitive Mobilisation Theory of Political Literacy and Participation. The findings underscored the substantial viewership of the INEC HALF Hour Programme on AIT, illuminating its vital role in educating residents about various aspects pertinent to electoral participation. These include procedural guidelines on voting, discouragement of electoral violence, voter registration procedures, elucidation of citizens' rights and responsibilities, protocols for reporting electoral malpractices, candidates' profiles alongside their manifestos, and insights into past electoral pitfalls with corresponding strategies for avoidance. In light of these observations, it is evident that the INEC HALF Hour Programme wielded considerable influence in galvanising the participation of Lafia residents during the 2023 general elections. Consequently, it is imperative to acknowledge and harness the achievements in voter education accomplished through AIT's INEC HALF Hour Programme as a cornerstone for sustained endeavours in this domain.
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Author(s):
Ndibe Chris Okwudili, Prof. M. S. Rabiu, Prof A. I. Igyuve, Ogande Anthony (Ph.D.).
Page No : 132-152
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Evaluating the Challenges and Prospects of Cross-Cultural Communication in Promoting Free Trade Zones in Nigeria.
Abstract
Abstract:
Free Trade Zones (FTZs) in Nigeria attract a diverse array of workers, businesses, and management teams from various cultural backgrounds. Effective communication within these environments is crucial for facilitating idea exchange, building trust, and maintaining relationships. With the expansion of global trade, the significance of cross-cultural communication in ensuring successful business interactions is paramount. However, the convergence of diverse cultural, linguistic, and business practices in Nigeria presents challenges that impede the optimal functioning of FTZs. This study delineates the challenges and prospects of cross-cultural communication in promoting investment in Nigerian FTZs. Using a qualitative approach, it employs in-depth interviews and document analysis to comprehensively explore these issues. Engaging stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds, the study identifies key communication challenges, including language barriers, stereotypes, ethnocentrism, and non-verbal communication differences. Despite these obstacles, implementing intercultural training programs and digital communication tools can enhance business interactions. This research contributes to international business, intercultural communication, and economic development discourse, offering insights for policymakers, business practitioners, and academics.
Keywords: Cross-cultural communication, Free Trade Zones, Nigeria, intercultural training, economic development, global trade.
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Author(s):
Louis Mbibeh, Awa Jacques Chirac, Nsono Josephine, Ngum Veronica, Nogning Armelle, Wango Julius, Eveline Mboh Khan, Pius Tih Muffih.
Page No : 153-163
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Barriers Faced by Women and Girls with Disabilities in Disclosing Sexual Abuse in the Northwest Region of Cameroon: A Case Study.
Abstract
Women with disabilities are two to three times more likely to experience violence than women without a disability and are less likely to disclose incidents of sexual violence and domestic abuse. In a typically patriarchal society like Cameroon, being a woman or girl with a disability increases the likelihood of gender-based violence – a risk that has been further exacerbated by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the region. There is a misconception that women and girls with disabilities like their male counterparts are safe from sexual violence given the falsehood that it is an unusual and shameful occurrence to have sexual relations with a woman with a disability. These prevailing prejudices inspired this study to investigate the barriers that prevent women with disabilities from reporting sexual and domestic abuse. The case study design was used to conduct in-depth content analysis of the situation of women with disability who had been abused. Nonprobability sampling resulted in a selection of 3 cases per disability type including vision, hearing, mobility, and psychosocial impairment types. Results show that there has been dead silence on abuse of women with disabilities due to social pressure, twists in the narrative to focus on blaming the victim, ignorance of what abuse is, and normalization of abuse amongst other reasons. The study recommends the need to enhance attitudinal change through an integrated awareness strategy that includes both women and girls with disability and the perpetrators on the one hand, and society on the other with consistent capacity building for service providers on identification and pathways to managing women and girls who have been abused.
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Author(s):
Ayodele Taye Jimoh (Ph.D.), Ruth Abiola Adimula (Ph.D.), Ayodele Adeyinka Atowoju (Ph.D.).
Page No : 164-174
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Exemplifying the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) in Fostering Peaceful Co-Existence Among Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.
Abstract
In the last three decades, most of the major conflicts in Nigeria are centered on ethnicity and religion. Fundamental Muslims and Christians or moderate (liberal) Muslims and adherents of African Indigenous Religions have wrecked a lot of havoc in Nigeria. In many cases, religious leaders and politicians have manipulated these conflicts for political and economic gains. These conflicts have resulted in the death of several thousands of people and loss of unquantifiable amount of money and property. Various attempts by government, individuals, religious and other interest groups on resolving the lingering and hydra-headed crisis have not yielded holistic and desirable result. Some scholarly articles have been written to proffer solutions to Nigeria's ethno-religious crisis; these include research on interfaith dialogue, social integration, sustainable communal developments, the impact of ethno- religious crisis on the security, economy and socio-political stability of the country. However, the exemplary nature of loving, empathizing, accepting, accommodating and living with one’s known or perceived enemies have not been adequately explored with religious hindsight. This paper therefore considers the exemplary character of the “Good Samaritan” in the parable of Jesus Christ (Luke 10:25-37) as a spring board for peaceful co-existence between Christians and people of other faiths in Nigeria multi-cultural contexts particularly, the Muslims. Exegetical and historical methods are used; the Theoretical Framework is premised on Eisenberg Pro-social Behaviour theory, which is defined as voluntary behaviour intended to benefit another (Eisenberg 1986). Findings reveal that, Nigeria has been wracked by periodic violent clashes between political, ethnic and religious groups since the second half of the 20th century. Reasons for these clashes vary from one locality to another but mostly motivated by religious, social, economic and political disputes. Conclusively, exemplifying the teaching of Jesus Christ on love for one's neighbour in the parable of the "Good Samaritan" here proposed first to the Christian community gives a new hope on the quest for peace in Nigeria and re-orientation for Christians and their Muslim neighbours. It is recommended therefore, that both Christians and Muslims in Nigeria should leverage on the “Good Samaritan’s” peace accord to one’s neghbour proposed by Jesus Christ without prejudice or stereotyping one another.
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Author(s):
Alexander C. Ugwukah (Ph.D.), Prince Emeka Emmanuel Ume-Ezeoke.
Page No : 175-192
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Widowhood Practices in Igboland: A Critical Analysis of the Plight and Prospects for Social Change of Women in Ekwulumili, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Widowhood has become a topical and sensitive global issue because of the ugly practice associated with it. Widowhood is a social status. It befalls a male or a female but it is generally used in reference to females who have lost their husbands, since most men who lose their wives soon abandon this’ status by re-marrying. Remarrying is not easy for women whose husbands have died, which is the beginning of the problem of widowhood. Scholars defines a widow as a woman whose husband is dead, and has not married again, a wife bereaved of her husband. He further emphasizes that widowhood is the state or condition of a widow or widower. Furthermore, “a woman becomes a widow when her husband dies and it is from that point of the death of the husband that widowhood practices start. These practices he defines as sets of expectations to action and behaviour by the widow and rituals performed by or on behalf of the widow from the time of the death of her husband.
The methodology used in the paper is the historical descriptive research method. The paper will also involve data collection and analysis where necessary, case studies, comparative analysis etc. By employing a comprehensive historical descriptive research methodology that incorporates these components, the study can generate robust insights and recommendations to inform evidence based and programmatic interventions for addressing widowhood practices in Igboland with special concentration in Ekwulumili, Anambra state.
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Author(s):
Richard Adewale Elewomawu.
Page No : 193-202
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Militarised Democracy: A Case Study of Nigeria.
Abstract
On 29th May 2019, Nigeria celebrated the twentieth anniversary of her latest democratisation process. Within this period, Nigeria has successfully organised six (6) elections with three changes of government. This is quite remarkable for democracy in Nigeria. However, because of the long years of military rule (31 years), it has been difficult to obliterate the hangover of the militarised psyche of Nigerian political actors. Despite the fact that we have civil rule, Nigeria still experiences abuse of the constitution, brutalisation of the citizenry, crackdown on the press, violent electioneering, significant influence of the military on political and social issues, which are identified with military rule. This study examined how democratic Nigerian democracy is since the last twenty years. It highlighted the features of military rule in our democracy. Workable recommendations such as ensuring proper devolution of powers, implementation of fiscal federalism, elimination of executive immunity etc are suggested for Nigeria to move from a militarised democracy to the ideal democracy.
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Author(s):
Tandiwe Mutede (Ph.D.).
Page No : 203-217
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Plastic Waste Recycling in Namibia and its Associated Benefits.
Abstract
Internationally, several researches have been conducted on plastic waste: forms, sources, composition, possible effects of inappropriate handling and international best practices of recycling. One issue that is still to be made clear and known is how much and how plastic is recycled in Namibia in order to reduce or eliminate the problem of “plastic landscape‟. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to examine plastic recycling in Namibia with a view to providing answers to policy makers, planners, academics and investors on how plastic can be managed. The paper employed an exploratory qualitative approach to provide answers to the research objectives. The research used face to face semi-structured interviews, document search (articles, journals, environmental organizations reports) and site visits. It was found that the spectrum of plastics (polymers) recycled in the country fell into two main categories; soft and hard which were sourced from different points of generation such as households, commercial businesses, industries and others. Plastic is the most widely used recyclable material. It is freely available in shops, but the most challenging material affecting urban environments where large volumes of plastic were generated. It was further found that total recycling of plastic was done according to the recycling symbol complete loop of recycling: collection, processing, manufacturing and subsequent re- sale of produced goods. The study recommends control of the availability of plastic through charges at point of sale as well as having buyback centre for recycling if the problem of plastic landscape‟ is to be addressed.
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Author(s):
Claret Chinwe Okoye.
Page No : 218-228
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Assistive Technology and Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Nigeria.
Abstract
There are a lot of disabled children living in sub-Saharan Africa, and many of them do not have access to basic medical treatment. According to the UNICEF study from 2021, the majority of African countries only maintain partial records of disability statistics. This study examined assistive technology and inclusion of children with disabilities in Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. To ensure the efficient and comprehensive collection of data for the study on assistive technology and the inclusion of children with disabilities in Nigeria, the use of digital online interviews and questionnaires was adopted. Thematic analysis and one-sample t-statistics was used to analyze the set of data that was collected from the study sample. The results demonstrate how important assistive technology is in enabling inclusive educational opportunities for children with disabilities by giving them the resources they require to participate in schooling and actively engage in the process of learning. Additionally, it was discovered that learning challenges in math, writing, and reading are addressed by assistive technology. It was finally discovered that children with impairments who use assistive technology (AT) find it much easier to learn independently. The study concludes that children with disabilities will benefit from assistive technology in a variety of ways, including enhanced communication, increased independence, and easier access to educational resources. It is therefore the recommendation of this paper that the government, in collaboration with international organizations and NGOs, should establish dedicated funds for purchasing AT devices and maintaining existing ones and educators need comprehensive training on the use of AT to support students with disabilities effectively. Teacher training programs should include modules on AT, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
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Author(s):
Willie Clement Etti, Daniel Udom Sunday, Mboho Kingdom Sunday.
Page No : 229-242
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Family Status and Teenage Pregnancy in Rural Communities of Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Abstract
Teenage Pregnancy is one of the prevailing social problems of our societies in this contemporary period. The term in every day speech usually refers to young girls who have not reached the legal adulthood to become pregnant. The study assesses the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural communities of Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Objectively, the study investigated the relationship between family status and teenage pregnancy specifically at it relates to parental background in the study area. The study also investigated the general causes, effects and the way out of this social menace in our societies. The study selected 5 medical centres and 100 respondents for the study. The study which was conducted in Uruan Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State employ which the social control theory as the theoretical framework and findings thematically analysed, findings identified family status like literacy level of the parent, income, poverty, media and peer as the primary influence of teenage of teenage pregnancy while the effects include: school drop-out, inadequate care for the child born by teenage mothers, health problems, poverty cycle deviancy and a host of other vices. The study suggested adequate parental care, eradication of street hawking and inculcation of moral values through religious bodies, improved incentives to boast the socio-economic status of families and rural development as ways of reducing teenage pregnancy in Nigeria.
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Author(s):
Serge E. Banyongen.
Page No : 243-265
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Fake News and Rumors on Social Media in Cameroon’s 2018 Presidential Election: Analyzing Political Communication in the Post-Truth Era.
Abstract
The rise of social media networks and their increasingly significant role in democratic life, epitomized by uprisings like the Arab Spring (Wolfsfeld et al., 2013), have revived hopes for democratization from below and the lively participation of the general population to produce dynamic system change. However, while social media allows for increased political awareness, it often inadvertently supports disseminating fake news and rumors that interfere with political reality. This article examines the most popular fake news stories, and rumors circulated during the 2018 presidential election in Cameroon through social media analytics. This research showcases the importance of homophily and echoes chambers in disseminating information on different political digital networks in Cameroon, revealing how fake news spread quickly during the campaign. Nevertheless, this research also shows that while specific fake news stories and rumors were not deemed plausible by the general public, they nevertheless shaped public perceptions and succeeded in maintaining the ruling party's political dominance power, underscoring the profound impact of misinformation on public opinion and political control.
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Author(s):
Yonmo Doutimi Permanent , Dide Stanley Mary Itesi, Chilaka Francis Chigozie (Ph.D), Degi Joebed Munakienkuma.
Page No : 266-281
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The Impact of Political Materialism on Voter Apathy in Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Study.
Abstract
This paper examines the relationship between materialistic politics and voter apathy in Nigeria’s democratic processes. The study explores how the competitive pursuit of wealth and power among political elites, often prioritized over public service, contributes to growing disengagement among voters. Factors investigated include eroding trust in political institutions, widespread corruption, and elected officials’ failure to address pressing socioeconomic issues. The influence of material incentives, such as financial inducements and patronage, is also considered. Anchored in Rational Choice theory, which posits that individuals act to maximize self-interest based on available information and potential outcomes, the research employs a mixed-methods approach. Data was collected through literatures studies and in-depth interviews with adult citizens, including representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, and professional bodies across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The findings highlight the need for a comprehensive re-evaluation of Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasizing a shift from materialistic gains to effective governance and inclusive development. The study recommends addressing the root causes of voter apathy to revitalizing Nigerian democracy, making it more inclusive, responsive, and representative of the people’s will.
Keywords: Materialistic politics, Nigeria, Voter apathy, Democracy, power
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Author(s):
Abdullahi Sarkin Gulbi, Umar Ahmed.
Page No : 282-296
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Fostering Civic Awareness and Engagement as a Strategy for Addressing Security Challenges in North-Western Nigeria: An Exploratory Study.
Abstract
The persistent security challenges in North-Western Nigeria necessitate innovative and sustainable solutions that go beyond conventional military and policing efforts. This exploratory study examines the potential of fostering civic awareness and engagement as a strategy for addressing security challenges in North-Western Nigeria, a region plagued by banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and inter-communal violence, resulting in loss of lives, displacement, and socio-economic disruption. Despite security agencies' efforts, the region's security remains a significant concern. This study argues that enhancing civic awareness and engagement offers a crucial, yet often overlooked, path to sustainable peace and security. Using qualitative research through training workshops, post-training interviews, and focus group discussions in six affected communities in Katsina and Zamfara, the study employs thematic analysis to reveal that existing civic initiatives have been largely ineffective due to inadequate funding, poor coordination, and implementation. However, it identifies opportunities for building trust between security agencies and local communities, facilitating information sharing, and promoting peaceful coexistence. The study proposes strategies for fostering civic engagement, such as mobilizing key stakeholders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and youth groups and tailoring initiatives to the local context. It also addresses challenges like fear of retribution (revenge), illiteracy, and resource constraints, offering solutions to overcome them. This study contributes to the literature on civic engagement's role in security, providing insights and practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable peace and security in North-Western Nigeria.
Key words: Civic awareness and engagement, security challenges, North-western Nigeria
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Author(s):
Uche Nnyagu (Ph.D.), Udoh Chinwe (Ph.D.), Ihueze Olivia Adaobi (Ph.D.).
Page No : 297-305
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Narratological Exploration of Igbo Folkloric Discourse: A Critical Analysis of Linguistic and Cultural Encoding in Selected Igbo Tales.
Abstract
That society is dynamic entails that no society is static; as days progress, new things come to replace old ones. With the coming of the Europeans in parts of African society, traditionalism gave way to the modernism. To an extent, dynamic of the society seems detrimental to the Igbo tradition as the modern civilization tends to extinct the Igbo tradition and culture. With our people developing more penchant for the western tradition, things keep falling apart in the contemporary Igbo society as the Igbo tradition and culture seem profusely neglected. This paper therefore, delves into the intricate cultural complexities of the Igbo people of southern Nigeria with the aim to explore the linguistic feature of folklore as it heralds understanding and preserving of the Igbo tales. With a lucid and comprehensive exploration of the Igbo folklore, the realistic facts of the Igbo identity is X-rayed. With the folkloric language parsed, the importance of folklore, with specific reference to folktale is vivified. The researchers believe that hence most aspects of folklore are basically performed, then Schechner’s Performance Theory is considered an apt theoretical framework for the analysis of the research.
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Author(s):
Balaraba John (Ph.D.), Mick Finlay.
Page No : 306-319
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Group Conflict in Nigeria: A Qualitative Exploration of Survivors’ Experiences.
Abstract
Background: This qualitative study explored the experiences of survivors of group conflicts in Nigeria. The persistent conflicts Nigeria not only create a sense of social distance but also hamper political and socioeconomic development of the country. This current study, therefore, serves as a guide to politicians and policy makers on how to effectively manage ethno-religious conflicts and practise peace building more safely.
Method: Data were gathered by means of semi-structured interviews conducted on fifteen individuals and analysed using thematic analysis. Participants were the survivors of numerous conflicts perpetrated by the Boko Haram Islamists and the Niger Delta Avengers in the northern and southern parts of Nigeria respectively.
Findings and conclusion: Two major themes emerged from the interviews, which capture the experiences of the participants who were the survivors of the numerous conflicts. Among these themes were also their suggestions on how to stop the conflicts and prevent any future conflicts. These themes include triggers of the conflict and coping with conflicts. Under these main themes were also subthemes where the numerous experiences were presented descriptively. These findings were placed alongside previous studies in this area and discussed with the existing theories in this field. Recommendations were made on how to prevent any future conflicts in Nigeria.
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Author(s):
Esara Umoh Victor, Asuquo Mfon Effiong, Obonah Friday Frank, Eshiet Hanson Thomas.
Page No : 320-331
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Insecurity and Communal Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Communal Conflicts is a social problem that affects a significant number of communities in Akwa Ibom States and Nigeria in general. Some lingering Communal Conflicts had affected the past generations, has affected the present generation and also attempting to affect the future generation if not properly resolved. Most communal conflicts in Akwa Ibom State are direct consequences of lack of proper demarcation of the boundaries between these communities. The main objective of the study was to investigate the factors that necessitate communal conflicts among communities in Akwa Ibom State. The study adopted a survey design. Data were obtained from two sources;Primary Source and Source. Primary data were obtained through interview and participant observation, while secondary data were obtained from extant literature. Respondents were selected using a multiple sampling techniques, this include purposive, Snowball and random sampling techniques. Two Sociological theories were used to explain the study these include, Human Need Theory and Frustration-Aggression Theory. The study recommends (amongst others) that government should constitute Panel that would fixed Proper boundary demarcation between these communities. The reports of panel of inquiry "White paper" should be properly implemented to forestall future communal conflicts in Akwa Ibom State. Government should do away with every form of political interest and bias to ensure that Peace is restore among the warring Communities.
