By David Onwuchekwa
As the Government of Anambra State grapples with the issue of kidnapping, violent crimes, and other forms of criminality, it should be understood that there are complex issues with multiple root causes responsible for these social menaces.
Those possible factors contributing to these problems must be addressed to achieve maximum result in this war against security challenges.
There is no doubt that poverty, economic inequality, lack of access to education, job opportunities, and basic necessities of life can drive individuals to crime.
In the same vein, social and cultural factors, breakdown of family structures, lack of community cohesion, and cultural norms that glorify violence can as well contribute to crime commission.
A close study has also shown that ineffective law enforcement and justice systems, corruption, inadequate resources, and slow justice processes can embolden criminals and undermine public trust.
Violent crimes are committed as a result of easy access to firearms and weapons. Availability of firearms and other weapons can increase the likelihood of violent crimes.
You cannot expect a crime-free society when the mental health of the individuals especially the youths are issues of concern mostly caused by substance abuse. Yes, substance abuse can, to a great extent, contribute to violent behavior.
The way out:
Government must, as a matter of priority, improve economic opportunities, invest more in education, job creation, and vocational training programmes to reduce poverty and inequality.
And there is need for new orientation on value system. Undue display of wealth in society should stop.
There is need to implement gun control measures. Enact and enforce strict gun control laws to reduce the availability of firearms. The State should find a way to handle this if it is in the Exclusive List.
Government should address mental health and substance abuse issues, increase access to mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and rehabilitation programmes.
The State should foster community engagement and social cohesion, support community-based initiatives that promote social cohesion and restorative justice.
To this end, Cause and Effect principle must apply to get crime-control measures right.
In as much as it is a welcome development to sanitize the State and clear it of criminal elements, Government must de-emphasize the effect and tackle the cause to achieve a long-run solution.
