THE ROLE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP STYLE IN THE REDUCTION OF YOUTH RESTIVENESS

The study investigates the role of local government leadership style in the reduction of youth restiveness in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State. . Four (4) research questions were raised to guide the study: A sample size of Four Hundred and Fifty (450) respondents, selected through simple random sampling technique was used for the study. In this wise, thirty youths were selected from each of the Twelve (12) wards to constitute a reasonable sample size for the study. The respondents within the age bracket of 15-30 years were used for the study. Questionnaire was the major instrument used for data collection and data was analyzed through the use of frequency conut and simple percentages Findings revealed that the provision of job opportunities to a very large extent and large extent can reduce youth restiveness, that the strategies employed by the local government leadership to reduce youth restiveness are; equitable distribution of income and basic political freedom, full-time
employment of the youths, provision of free and functional quality education for the youth and involvement of the youths in politics, It was further revealed that that provision of job opportunities to a very large extent and large extent can reduce youth restiveness and that the effects of youth restiveness in the area; proliferation of political thuggery, crime, kidnapping discontent and disrespect for elders. It was therefore recommended that government should provide functional and free education to the citizens as this will advance the level of country literacy and awareness. Our elites should also be re-educated and re-oriented as they have been accused of causing or employing youth in achieving their political objectives. It was further recommended that creation of jobs and employment opportunities to our youth would also hinder them from all restive activities as joblessness makes them willing tools in any conflict.