Keywords: Administration, Community, Participation, Policing, Security, Vigilante

Abstract

The study was motivated by the increasing security challenges facing rural communities and the need to evaluate the role of local government administration in maintaining peace and order at the grassroots level. The objectives of the study were to assess the role of local government administration in maintaining security in Usen community, examine the strategies used to enhance community safety, identify challenges affecting effective security management, and evaluate the role of community participation in supporting local government security efforts. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaires administered to sixty (60) respondents selected from Usen community. The data collected were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages, and the findings were presented in tables. The findings revealed among others; that local government administration contributes significantly to community security through collaboration with vigilante groups, community sensitization programs, and engagement with traditional institutions. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, poor cooperation among security agencies, insufficient manpower, and lack of logistical support were identified as major constraints to effective security management. The study concluded that effective community security in Usen community depends largely on strong collaboration between local government administration, security agencies, vigilante groups, traditional leaders, and community members. The study thus recommended among others; increased funding for local security initiatives and improved collaboration among security stakeholders and strengthening of community policing programs to enhance grassroots security management in Usen community of Ovia South West LGA.

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Published: 2026

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