A SOCIO-LEGAL EXAMINATION OF BULLYING BEHAVIOUR IN NIGERIAN COLLEGES AND ITS IMPACT ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Bullying is a global phenomenon and a pervasive issue within Nigerian colleges, exerting significant socio-legal and academic consequences on affected students. This study offers a comprehensive socio-legal examination of bullying behaviour in Nigerian secondary schools, exploring its underlying causes, prevalence, and the inadequacies of current legal and institutional responses. Through a doctrinal research approach and, drawing from sociological and legal perspectives, this paper investigates how systemic factors such as weak enforcement of anti-bullying policies, cultural norms, community attitudes, institutional silence and legal gaps shape bullying behaviour and contribute to its persistence in Nigerian schools. The paper also critically analyses the Nigerian legal framework, and educational policies, assessing their effectiveness in protecting students from peer victimization. The study finds that there is a strong correlation between bullying and poor academic performance among victims, due to frequent experiences of fear, anxiety, emotional distress, reduced class participation, and academic disengagement. Moreover, the lack of robust legal protections and inadequate redress mechanisms often leave students vulnerable and without recourse. Against this backdrop, this paper advocates for a multidimensional approach to addressing bullying in Nigerian colleges. It recommends among other things, the development of enforceable institutional anti-bullying policies, legal reforms or creation of a new legal framework to recognize bullying as a distinct offence, regular student sensitization/awareness programmes, and the establishment of accessible reporting and support systems. Ultimately, the study underscores the urgent need for a socio-legal response that prioritizes an academic environment free from harassment and intimidation, for enhanced academic performance and the overall well-being of Nigerian students.