Charity for Security: Communities’ Reciprocation to Vigilante Groups during Coronavirus-Induced Lockdown in Jos

Abstract

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, in April 2020, the state government imposed a total lockdown in the city of Jos, which precipitated an adverse condition of hunger and deprivation. Due to insufficient manpower, state security mobilized all the city’s vigilante groups to enforce the lockdown and ensure strict observance of COVID-19 social distancing protocols. As a result, vigilantes had to bear the brunt of anger and hostility from some residents who saw them as accomplices in the securitization of the pandemic. The paper argues that vigilantes’ involvement in managing the lockdown has further entrenched their power and authority beyond the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite the anger thrown at vigilante groups, many people in the city donated food, water, bread, and small gifts to them. This charity giving, which has continued up to the post-pandemic period, has strengthened social bonds by fostering a sense of mutual support between vigilantes and community members. The charity also generated social solidarity, a reciprocal relationship that increased the vigilantes’ legitimacy and authority.