Socio-Economic Effects of the Damming of River Yobe on the People of Karage, Jakusko Local Government Area, Yobe State, Nigeria

This study examines the socio-economic impact of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC) on the Rido Area of Kaduna metropolis. Primary data was collected from households residing in the area. 610 copies of well structured questionnaires were administered to the households. Questions were related to the socio-economic characteristics of households and benefits or otherwise they derive from the presence of the KRPC. Questions regarding the ownership of businesses and their sources of capital were asked from the business organizations. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive methods. The study result reveals that the presence of the refinery in the study area impacted negatively on most of the socio-economic parameters such as employment, health, housing, education, land value etc, thus making the inhabitants of the area blame the refinery for the rising wave in crime within the study area. The positive impact of the refinery on the study area is the increase in businesses and commercial activities. These have contributed to better livelihood for many of the inhabitants of the area. Suggestions were made towards improving the socio-economic conditions of households.