504.5
Perception of Security Operatives on the Nature, Causes and Consequences of Corruption Among Security Operatives in Kauna State, Nigeria
BY
OKESHOLA B. Folashade
AND
MAMMAN A. James
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY
AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY,
ZARIA, NIGERIA
shadeoyz@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
This study assesses the perception of security operatives on the challenges they face as security operatives in the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The study adopted both primary and secondary sources of data collection. Primary sources are observations of security operatives at security checkpoints, questionnaires were distributed to 120 security operatives in Kaduna metropolis and 6 in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants. For secondary source, data was collected from Security Operatives Disciplinary Records on corrupt practices emanating from complaints lodged against them by victims (members of the public) or caught by officers /colleagues while on visiting or visiting rounds to assess performance. Findings show that causes of corruption among security operatives includes over-centrality of authority within operatives structure, recruitment of persons with questionable character, poor salary, embezzlement and lack of good pension scheme. However, some of the challenges facing security operatives as found in the study is that the general public initiate corruption, bringing returns by junior officers, victimization by very important personalities (VIPs), issuing counter orders by superior officers and lack of adequate accommodation. Also, some of the consequences of the above includes lack of good governance, marginalization/frustration of public officers and diversion of public funds. Moreover, it is recommended that in order to win the war against corruption, there is need to reduce government involvement in all economic spheres as well as improving accountability and transparency in financial disclosure. This will eliminate opportunities for corrupt dealings.