Effectiveness of Sentencing Policies on Crime Deterrence in Nigeria
Law — 2025, Undergraduate
This study assessed the effectiveness of sentencing policies on crime deterrence in Nigeria. Court records, sentencing data, and questionnaire responses from legal professionals and law enforcement officers were analysed. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. The findings revealed that the certainty and swiftness of punishment mattered more for deterrence than severity alone, and that inconsistent sentencing and low conviction rates weakened deterrent effects. The study observed prison congestion without corresponding public safety gains. It recommends evidence-based sentencing, procedural efficiency, and alternatives to custodial sentences.
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