Territoriality and safety in urban residential neighborhoods in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper compares types and distribution of crime in residential areas with fences and street barricades to areas without and assesses the implications on the neighborhood safety and crime control. It explores the residents’ perception of crime and safety before and after the introduction of physical barriers. The results show that similar crimes occur in both areas, with the highest incidences recorded in the higher and medium-income areas. Location did not significantly influence crime incidence, location and street barricades together produced a significant influence on crime incidences (F = 17.853; Sig. = .00). Fences and street barricades have slight effect on crime incidences (R = .418; R² = .175). Retreating behind the walls provides opportunity for street crimes. Despite recording high incidences of crime, residents’ perception of safety improved after the introduction of street gates and barricades. The study concludes that alternatives to gates, fences, and street barricades are imperative.

Keywords:

• Defensible spaces
• crime control
• informal surveillance
• crime pattern
• territoriality