Street Laws: A Sociological Study of Informal Policing and Justice Systems in Urban Slums in Warri, Delta State

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@article{1708168,
      author = {Onota Hendris, Gbenekama Truston, Oloya Cynthia Edafe},
      title = {Street Laws: A Sociological Study of Informal Policing and Justice Systems in Urban Slums in Warri, Delta State},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {8},
      number = {10},
      pages = {1319-1332},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1708168.pdf},
      abstract = {This study titled ?Street Laws: A Sociological Study of Informal Policing and Justice Systems in Urban Slums in Warri, Delta State? explored the structures, legitimacy, and impact of informal policing mechanisms commonly known as ?street laws? on crime control and community perceptions of justice and security. Grounded in Social Disorganisation Theory (Shaw & McKay, 1942), the research posits that social instability, weak institutions, and environmental decay foster the emergence of community-led justice systems. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, drawing from a population of slum dwellers in areas such as Igbudu, Okere, and Ugbuwangue, with a sample size of 367 respondents selected using stratified random sampling. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive statistics and Chi-square inferential tests, processed via SPSS version 29. Findings revealed that while informal policing systems are widely accepted in Warri?s slums, cultural legitimacy does not significantly determine their effectiveness in maintaining social order. Similarly, no statistically significant difference was observed between informal and formal policing systems regarding their impact on crime control and residents? perception of justice. These results suggest that although informal systems fill crucial gaps in governance, their efficacy should not be overestimated solely based on community trust or tradition. The study recommended enhancing the operational quality of informal policing through training, accountability mechanisms, and strategic collaboration with formal law enforcement agencies. It also advocates for policy reforms that bridge informal and formal justice systems to ensure a more inclusive and effective approach to urban crime control. These recommendations aim to promote safer, more equitable communities in urban slum settings.},
      keywords = {Informal Policing, Street Laws, Urban Slums, Warri, Crime Control, Justice Systems, Community Security.},
      month = {April},
  }