STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF CRIMES ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES AND COUNTRIES DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study examines the influence of selected socio-economic determinants on crime rates in Osun State, Nigeria, using data from 187 respondents analyzed with STATA statistical software. Key findings indicate that societal injustice and unemployment significantly drive youth crime, while higher education reduces the likelihood of criminal behavior. The most common crimes in the state include stealing, cybercrime, drug abuse, and pickpocketing. Educated individuals and rural residents are less likely to engage in crime compared to those with no formal education and urban residents. Communities lacking streetlights and police stations experience higher crime rates, whereas those without commercial centers record lower rates. High unemployment is also linked to increased crime. Gender significantly influences crime, with males exhibiting higher rates (p = 0.015), while higher education (p = 0.001) and rural residence (p = 0.0311) are associated with lower crime rates. To mitigate these issues, it is recommended to enhance access to education and create employment opportunities, particularly for youth, while improving community infrastructure, such as streetlights and police stations, to deter criminal activities in high-risk areas.