Berom Traditional Justice System and Effective Crime Prevention in Plateau State, Nigeria

Despite the enduring role of indigenous justice mechanisms in fostering community cohesion and resolving disputes, empirical evidence on their impact on crime prevention and overall crime reduction remains scarce. This study examines the Berom Traditional Justice System (BTJS) in Plateau State, Nigeria, and its effectiveness in crime prevention. Anchored on the social control theory, the study adopted survey design and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 382 Berom residents in Gyel and Riyom Districts who constituted the study population. The study employed Pearson’s Product–Moment Correlation statistical technique to test the stated hypothesis on Berom Traditional Justice system and its effectiveness in crime prevention. The study findings, revealed that Berom traditional justice system is very effective in crime prevention and reduction among the Berom communities.The study also found out that the major challenge confronting the Berom traditional criminal justice system were primarily related to leadership integrity and the perceived risks associated with oath-taking practices The study recommends, that the traditional justice system should be integrated with the formal justice system through appropriate legislation. The study also recommends, synergy between the traditional rulers who are the custodians of the customary laws and the agents of the criminal justice system. The study further recommends that government should establish an organisation that will be responsible for checking the excesses by the traditional leaders.