Socio-spatial Pattern of Crime Prevalence in Akure, Nigeria

Abstract

Crime is a human security problem affecting humanity around the world. In Nigeria, the upsurge in crime is a serious concern. This study examines the socio-spatial patterns of crime in Akure to provide physical planning measures that will aid policy formulation in the study area. Crime prevalence was analysed using statistical tools to examine the spatial patterns of crime, types and nature of crime committed, factors affecting crime and the impact of crime in the study area. Akure was zoned into high, medium, and low-density zones, and questionnaires were administered to 170 residential buildings using simple random sampling within the street of each zone. Findings showed that 70% of the types of crime examined in the three density zones were categorized as very high within the high-density area of Akure. The study highlighted unemployment, parent conflict, and dysfunctional families with uncaring behaviours as the major factors influencing crime across the board. In addition, confusion, fatigue, sadness, loss of property, and helplessness adversely affect criminal activities in the vicinity of Akure. Analysis of variance and Turkey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test revealed significant differences in the prevalence of crime across different density zones in Akure. Therefore, the study encourages planning professionals to integrate crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) to design neighbourhoods and commercial areas, promote natural surveillance, discourage illicit activities, and enhance community cohesion across the board.