Crime Management and the Modern Security Correction Measures in Nigeria: Preventive Alternatives to Punitive Response

Abstract

Against the background of rising trends in criminal activities in Nigeria, in recent times, this study seeks to determine whether or not community correction treatment as alternative way of curbing crime and improving public safety has any empirical justification. To achieve this objective, the study utilized secondary data on reported crime incidents in Nigeria. These data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. The results indicate a rejection of the null hypotheses at 0 .05 level of significance. It was found that criminal justice process takes an offender through a series of decision points at each agency, from arrest into the courts through re-entry into community. Thus, provides reactive approach to addressing crime. It was becoming readily apparent that this traditional respond on its own was insufficient for the task of reducing crime. The results also indicate that the types and levels of crime that occur are beyond community correction treatment. Community corrections were also ineffective in meeting the goals of deterrence, incapacitation and rehabilitation punishment ideal; a kind of response that epitomizes treatment-punishment mixture. The study recommended that crime prevention is best viewed as an alternative to those more traditional modes of crime control and widely supported by public over place and time. It is far more socially worthwhile and sustainable to intervene before harm is inflicted on a victim and the offender is under the supervision of the
justice system. A combination of the emerging and more promising alternative forms of crime prevention and some of the traditional modes of approach will be more effective in reducing crime.