PERCEPTION OF INEQUALITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE AMONG RESIDENTS OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Inequality and social justice remain core concerns of sociological inquiry, as they directly affect human well-being, development, and social stability. Across the world, disparities in income, wealth, political power, access to education, healthcare, and legal protection have led to complex challenges that continue to shape human societies. The justice system, often seen as the ultimate safeguard for fairness and equity, is deeply interwoven with issues of inequality. Relative Deprivation and Procedural Justice theories were used to explain the research. The survey used a quantitative research method, with data collected via a questionnaire. A multistage sampling technique was employed, with a sample size of 396 respondents, based on Cochran’s formula. Findings reveal a strong perceived link between inequality and social justice among residents of Kaduna state. The chi-square test examining the relationship between educational level and perception of fairness in the justice system reveals a statistically significant association (χ² = 22.45, d.f = 8, p = 0.004). The government should strengthen accountability by ensuring that institutions saddled with justice discharge their duties without bias, thereby improving transparency in justice administration in the state.