FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

This study examined democratic governance and the impact of traditional rulers in Nigeria, with particular reference to Edo and Delta States. The research was motivated by the continued relevance of traditional institutions in governance despite Nigeria's adoption of a democratic system. The study sought to assess the roles performed by traditional rulers in promoting democratic governance, examine their contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, community development, and political mobilization, as well as identify the challenges limiting their effectiveness in the democratic process. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The target population comprised traditional rulers, community leaders, public servants, and residents of selected communities in Edo and Delta States. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to respondents selected through an appropriate sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that traditional rulers continue to play significant roles in democratic governance by promoting peace and security, resolving communal disputes, preserving cultural values, facilitating grassroots development, and serving as intermediaries between government and the people. However, their effectiveness is constrained by constitutional limitations, political interference, inadequate financial support, and the absence of clearly defined roles within Nigeria's democratic framework. The study concluded that traditional rulers remain indispensable stakeholders in Nigeria's democratic governance and national development. It recommended that government should strengthen collaboration with traditional institutions, clearly define their constitutional roles, enhance their participation in grassroots governance, and provide adequate support to enable them to contribute more effectively to sustainable democratic governance and community development in Edo and Delta States.

This study investigates the magnitude of the direction of government expenditure and its impact on the wellbeing of the people with the aim of alleviating poverty. Some social indicators were employed in the study which reflects the living standard of the people and they include health, agriculture, education, microfinance and life expectancy. By employing these indicators, the rate at which government expenditure affect the lives of people and also us relative impact on poverty reduction were determined In this study, the Ordinary Least Squares method of analysis was used with Poverty as the dependent variable and five independent variables. They are government expenditure on education, health, agriculture, microfinance and life expectancy. The data used in this research was collected from secondary data obtained from the CBN statistical bulletin. The major findings shows that government expenditure on health education and agriculture are significant and a unit increase of government expenditure in these sectors can reduce poverty level. While that of life expectancy and microfinance are insignificant and a unit increase will increase poverty level. Recommendation were proffered based on the findings of this research that government at all levels should gear up its investment in agricultural research, health and education and ensure that its expenditure are channeled towards projects that will reduce poverty level in Nigeria so as to drive the economy towards growth and development.

This study examined the political economy of elections in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on the implications of money politics on voting behaviour during the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election in Ovia North East Local Government Area. The study was motivated by the increasing influence of vote buying, financial inducements, and other forms of electoral malpractice on democratic governance and electoral integrity in Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from eligible voters using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to assess the relationship between money politics and voting behaviour. The findings revealed that money politics significantly influenced voters' electoral choices, reduced electoral credibility, and weakened democratic values by encouraging vote buying and undermining issue-based campaigns. The study also found that economic hardship, poverty, and unemployment increased voters' susceptibility to financial inducements during elections. It concludes that the persistence of money politics poses a serious threat to free, fair, and credible elections and undermines democratic consolidation in Nigeria. The study recommends stricter enforcement of electoral laws, effective voter education, improved campaign finance regulation, and the implementation of policies aimed at reducing poverty and promoting electoral transparency to strengthen democratic governance.

The study investigated awareness creation of mental health in the society by social workers in Okabere Community in Ikpoba Okha LGA of Benin City Edo state, Nigeria. The objective of this study was to investigate and highlight the level of awareness creation of mental health by Social Workers. Five research questions were asked to achieve the objective of the study. The sample size was 301 participants chosen from the study population using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling, the research instrument utilized was the questionnaire. Conclusion drawn from the analysis of the data retrieved from the questionnaire indicates that Due to the negative impact of social media on student’s life, such as ineffective studies, poor academic performance and the general mental health status, putting effective measures in place is pertinent to their academic success and general life. This was done by identifying the major ways social workers couldcreate awareness of mental health and finding the appropriate remedy, based on the analysis made, this thesis , It was discovered that, there is a big relationship between mental health awareness and mental health balance in Okabere community as 59.1% of the respondents strongly agreed to the question ,. It is therefore recommended that recommended that social auxiliary workers assist the social workers in the provision of mental health services. This is because the high caseloads that each social worker is typically burdened with is a precursor to mental fatigue and consequent decline in effectiveness

This study examined stressor factor influencing student wellbeing in the University of Benin. This study adopted the survey design using research questionnaires as instrument of data collection. The result established that a significant proportion of students experience anxiety during examination preparation, confirming that academic-related stressors have a considerable effect on their mental and emotional wellbeing. It was affirmed that heavy academic workloads negative influence students’ sleep and emotional health, thereby impairing their ability to maintain a balanced academic life. The findings confirmed that the fear of academic failure contributes to emotional distress among Students, indicating the psychological burden tied to academic expectations. The attitude and teaching stiles of some lecturers were identified as stress-inducing, suggesting that instructional methods play a crucial role in shaping students’ academic stress levels. The study recommends that there should be implementation of stress management programs and counseling services by relevant body in University of Benin to help students cope with anxiety related to examination preparation and academic pressures. The University should review and adjust academic workloads to ensure they are manageable and do not adversely affect students’ sleep and emotional health, promoting a healthier study-life balance. The University should develop initiatives to address the fear of academic failure, such as motivational workshops and peer support groups, to reduce emotional distress and build students' confidence. The University should provide training for lecturers on effective and empathetic teaching methods to create a supportive learning environment that minimizes academic stress related to instructional styles

The study investigated the effect of rural poverty on tax compliance in Ogbese community in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. To achieve the purpose of the study, four (4) research questions were raised and answered. To achieve the purpose of the study, four (4) research questions were raised and answered. The sample size for the study was made up of 100 respondents. The data collected was analyzed using frequency count and simple percentage. The study revealed that rural poverty, low household income, and unemployment significantly hinder tax compliance among residents in Ogbese community. It was concluded that economic hardship reduces individuals’ ability and willingness to meet their tax obligations. The study recommended among others that government agencies should implement regular tax education campaigns in rural communities to improve residents’ understanding of tax obligations, benefits, and procedures. This can include workshops, community meetings, and use of local media.

The purpose of the study was to find out the the socio-economic determinants of marital stability in Oredo Local government area, Edo State. It was a descriptive research with emphasis on survey approach. Purposive sampling method was used to cover both Urban and Rural areas of study. Findings revealed that marital conflicts did exist. The results of the two hypotheses tested revealed that there were no significant differences in the causes of marital conflicts among couples based on level of education and length of marriage. In conclusion, the inevitability of conflicts in any form of marriage was established. To prevent or manage crisis therefore will depend largely on the mutual understanding of couples involved. Based on this conclusion, it is recommended that adequate provision be made for both preventive, remedial and rehabilitative counseling, interventions through different bodies such as government and non-governmental organizations {NGO’s} for the married and prospective couples to enhance marital stability in our societies.

This study examined rural development as a means of combating rural–urban migration in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The increasing movement of people from rural communities to urban centers has become a major socio-economic challenge, resulting in population pressure in cities and underdevelopment in rural areas. The study aimed to investigate the causes of rural–urban migration, assess the level of rural development in the study area, and evaluate how the provision of basic amenities and economic opportunities can reduce migration tendencies among rural residents.
The study adopted a survey research design. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and relevant secondary sources from respondents selected through a simple random sampling technique. The findings revealed that inadequate infrastructure, limited employment opportunities, poor healthcare services, insufficient educational facilities, and low agricultural productivity are major factors driving rural inhabitants to migrate to urban centers. The study further found that effective rural development initiatives, including the provision of roads, electricity, potable water, healthcare facilities, quality education, and agricultural support programs, can significantly improve living standards and discourage excessive migration.
The study concluded that sustainable rural development remains a viable strategy for reducing rural–urban migration and promoting balanced national development. It recommended increased government investment in rural infrastructure, empowerment of rural farmers and entrepreneurs, improved access to social services, and active community participation in development planning and implementation. These measures would enhance rural livelihoods, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region.