Religio-Ethical Evaluation of Cybercrime Among Students in Afijio, Oyo State

This study examined the religio-ethical dimensions and determinants of cybercrime among senior secondary school students in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the increasing involvement of youths in cyber-related offences and the apparent disconnect between moral awareness and behavioural practices. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The sample consisted of one hundred and twenty (120) students selected from five (5) senior secondary schools using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores. The findings revealed that students’ involvement in cybercrime is significantly influenced by socio-economic and peer-related factors, including poverty, peer pressure, poor parental guidance, and exposure to digital technologies. The study also found that although students generally possess strong religio-ethical awareness and perceive cybercrime as morally wrong and religiously unacceptable, this awareness does not necessarily translate into behavioural compliance. This indicates a gap between moral knowledge and actual practice among students. The study concludes that cybercrime among secondary school students is driven by a combination of economic challenges, social influences, and weak value internalisation. It recommends strengthening moral and religio-ethical education, enhancing parental supervision, promoting positive societal values, and addressing socio-economic challenges affecting youths. These measures are essential for curbing the growing incidence of cybercrime among students. Keywords: Cybercrime, Religio-Ethical Perception, Secondary School Students, Peer Influence, Nigeria.