Motorcycle Theft Victimization in Oyo Town, Nigeria: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

The frequent occurrence of motorcycle theft has become a major cause for concern for many commercial motorcyclists and private motorcycle owners in Nigeria. However, little empirical information exists on this form of crime. Against this background, this qualitative study examined the patterns of motorcycle theft and experiences of victimised commercial motorcyclists in Oyo town. Routine activity theory was utilised as theoretical framework. Data were generated through key-informant interview and focus group discussion methods. Snowball sampling technique was utilised for the selection of nine victims of motorcycle theft, while 35 FGD participants were purposively chosen. Findings showed that the high-cost of motorcycles, ineffective policing, and unregulated inter-city conveyance of motorcycles by truck drivers were the major factors promoting motorcycle theft. Also, different self-induced and environmental factors were responsible for the exposure of commercial motorcyclists in Oyo town to victimisation. Commercial motorcyclists are urged to take all necessary precautions against any situation that can make them susceptible to motorcycle theft victimisation.