Determinants Factors Predisposing Crop Farmers to Farm Thefts in Imo State, Nigeria

Farm theft is prevalent and significant issue that affects crop farmers worldwide, including those in Nigeria. Theft, pose a difficulty to farmers who may not have sufficient resources and knowledge about prevention. This study examined the factors predisposing crop farmers to farm thefts in Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of crop farmers in Imo State, Nigeria; determined frequency and season of occurrence of farm thefts in crop production; examined the perceived factors that predispose crop farmers to thefts. Primary data were obtained through the use of questionnaire. Data collected for the study were analyzed with frequencies, percentages and mean. The result from the study revealed that the average age of crop farmers was 47.96 years, greater proportions (51.69%) were males, majority (82.20%) were married, majority (54.24%) had secondary school education, average household size was 8 persons. The average farm size and farming experience were 0.52 hectare and 13.89 years respectively. Crop farmers had average monthly farm income of ₦67,860, greater proportion (85.59%) of them were member of social organization and majority (64.41%) had no contact with extension agents. Crop farmers admitted that farm theft occur in the evening (88.98%), in the morning (56.78%), occur anytime of the day (47.46%) and theft occurs in the afternoon (38.98%). The major factor perceived by the crop farmers that predispose them to thefts were farm location and accessibility (x̄ = 2.40), farm workers that were male steal farm produced more than their female counterpart (x̄ =2.11), family dependence predispose people to steal (x̄ =2.01), high cost of living (x̄ =2.50), financial difficulties among workers (x̄ =2.44), attractiveness of the farm produce (x̄ =2.37). The study highlights the need to strengthen farm security measures, improve farmers’ access to agricultural extension services, and promote community-based strategies to reduce farm theft and protect crop production in Imo State.