Traditional Crime Control Methods among Akoko Communities of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Traditional Crime control methods among Akoko Communities of Ondo State Nigeria are rooted in the various beliefs, norms and customs of the Akoko people. The methods used by these people are well organized to maintain peace, order, and social harmony prior to the inception of formal crime control measures by the British colonial masters. The Akoko people believe in these methods because they emphasize restorative justice, reconciliation, fairness and social order. Their belief is further reinforced by the fact that justice was administered quickly, swiftly, and restoratively rather than just punitively; there is no human interference and manipulation. These methods which are embedded in their culture, enjoyed high community trust and rapid response despite facing challenges such as being seen as black magic by modern religion which came with colonization, lack of recognition by the government, concern over human rights, lack of specific role for traditional institutions under which some of these methods are submerged, while modernization and western education have contributed to the reduction of their influence. Incorporation of aspects of these methods in criminal justice system in the present-day modern democracy is hereby recommended.