AN EVALUATION OF COMMUNITY‐LED EFFORTS TO ERADICATE SKULL MINING IN YORUBA STATES: A STUDY OF GRASSROOTS MOVEMENTS IN OSUN STATE

AN EVALUATION OF COMMUNITY‐LED EFFORTS TO ERADICATE SKULL MINING IN YORUBA STATES: A STUDY OF GRASSROOTS MOVEMENTS IN OSUN STATE

Background of the Study

Community-led initiatives have become an important mechanism for addressing social issues, particularly in regions where local traditions and practices are resistant to external interventions. In Osun State, grassroots movements have emerged to combat various illegal practices, including skull mining, which is deeply rooted in traditional religious and cultural rituals. These community-based efforts, often spearheaded by local leaders, religious organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), seek to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide alternative livelihoods to reduce the prevalence of skull mining.

 

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of grassroots movements in Osun State in addressing skull mining practices. It will explore the strategies employed by community-led initiatives, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved in reducing or eradicating skull mining in the region.

 

Statement of the Problem

Despite the efforts of law enforcement and governmental interventions, skull mining remains prevalent in certain parts of Osun State, largely due to the persistence of traditional beliefs and the lack of alternative economic opportunities. Grassroots movements have been instrumental in addressing these challenges, yet their effectiveness in eradicating skull mining practices has not been adequately assessed. This study aims to evaluate the role of community-led efforts in tackling skull mining in Osun State, focusing on the strategies and outcomes of these initiatives.

 

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate the effectiveness of community-led efforts in eradicating skull mining practices in Osun State.

 

To assess the strategies employed by grassroots movements in raising awareness and providing alternatives to skull mining.

 

To explore the challenges faced by grassroots movements in addressing skull mining in Osun State.

 

Research Questions

How effective have community-led efforts been in eradicating skull mining practices in Osun State?

 

What strategies have grassroots movements employed to combat skull mining in Osun State?

 

What challenges have grassroots movements faced in addressing skull mining in Osun State?

 

Significance of the Research

This research is significant because it will provide a comprehensive evaluation of grassroots efforts to combat skull mining, offering valuable insights into the effectiveness of community-led initiatives. By examining the strategies used and the challenges faced, the study will contribute to the development of more effective community-based interventions to address skull mining and other ritualistic crimes. The findings will be useful for policymakers, community leaders, and NGOs in designing culturally sensitive and locally driven solutions to combat skull mining.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Research

The study will focus on Osun State and will evaluate the efforts of grassroots movements in combating skull mining. It will not extend to other regions or explore other forms of ritualistic crime. The research is limited by the availability of data on grassroots initiatives and the sensitivity of the topic, which may affect participants' willingness to openly discuss their involvement in or knowledge of illegal practices.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Skull Mining: The illegal exhumation and trafficking of human skulls for spiritual or ritualistic purposes.

 

Community-Led Efforts: Initiatives that are driven by local communities, often involving local leaders, religious groups, and NGOs, aimed at addressing social issues such as illegal activities.

 

Grassroots Movements: Local, community-based organizations or efforts that seek to address societal challenges by mobilizing individuals at the community level.

 

List of References

Adenuga, A. O., Aborisade, R. A., & Atere, A. A. (2024). Stemming the tide of violent conflicts in southwest Nigeria: The role of Yoruba indigenous security system. Fuoye Journal of Criminology and Security Studies, 3(2).