An Etiological Study of the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

The proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria has not been thoroughly investigated and examined by scholars and policy makers. Hence, the extent of its danger in the security of the oil rich region has not been properly understood. This study sets out to investigate the etiology of the proliferation in SALW in the Niger Delta region. The study employed the use of secondary data gathered from journals, textbooks and other materials to highlight the causes of the proliferation of SALW in the region. The conflict theory propounded by Karl Marx was used as the background for this study. Hence, the study unraveled the impact of the uncontrollable spread of SALWs in the hands of individuals and militant groups in the region. In addition to this, it is also argues that the proliferation has been responsible for the security challenges in the region. The study suggests ways by which the proliferation in SALW can be curbed in the region.