Prebendalism And Rural Poverty In Cross River State, Nigeria

Prebendalism and rural poverty are two main variables whose problems have negatively impacted on the developmental process of Cross River state. This condition at the grassroots is commonly observed in the areas of low income, poor shelter, poor health facilities, and in other socioeconomic wellbeing of the people. In this study, the main objective was to investigate the effect of prebendalism on rural poverty in cross River State. A quantitative research method was utilized. The findings of this study shows that prebendalism and rural poverty as the bane of development in the state are difficult to be eradicated. The implication is that unless prebendalism is eradicated, the wellbeing of the people at the grassroots will be a mirage. Therefore, this study attempts to provide policy directive along the line of the need for government to review its implementation of poverty programmes at the grassroots by eradicating or minimizing prebendalism. This can be done by ensuring that the government implementation policy on poverty programmes in the state should be reviewed with the aim to eradicate prebendalism. The existing laws in the state should be strengthened and more powers be given to the various agencies handling economic and financial crimes in the state as well as punish offenders without regard to party affiliation or status.