We don’t have government here: banditry and the polycrisis of governance in northwest Nigeria

This study provides evidence on the evolution and dynamics of banditry and how they are enabled through interlocking factors of governance deficits in northwest Nigeria. It relies on first-hand perspectives gathered covertly and directly from the bandits, defectors, residents, and victims. The paper provides a significant contribution to knowledge by analysing the real and potential impacts of banditry. It links causation to the effects, and shows how the continuous interaction of these factors generates a cycle of polycrisis in northwest Nigeria. The study yields insights for theory and offers direction on the policy imperatives for combatting banditry. The paper concludes that the governance framework to eliminate, neutralise, and disrupt banditry must embrace four strategies − the peacebuilding approach, security sector reform, development, and strategic social support to victims.