Bullying in the Nigerian Work Environment

Abstract

Workplace bullying has attracted the attention of researchers in Europe, US, and elsewhere. It has therefore become necessary to examine the phenomenon in Nigeria, given the continuous enlightenment concerning the health of targets and the financial implications for organisations. Using qualitative data obtained from structured in-depth-interview of thirty employees randomly selected from public and private sector organisations in Nigeria, this study explores the nature of bullying in the Nigerian work environment. Considering the paucity of literature on the subject in Africa, this research contributes to knowledge on the nature of workplace bullying in Nigeria with a focus on the contexts of its occurrence. Findings reveal the prominence of bullying in the public sector with culture playing a significant part in its acceptability. Findings also reveal that bullying targets are not likely to report such behaviour because of the fear of retribution. Religion is therefore employed as a coping mechanism because jobs are scarce and social benefits do not exist to cushion the impact of unemployment. The impact on productivity is profound; disenchanted workforces that exhibit little or no ingenuity in the execution of their duties cannot function maximally. Unfortunately, diligent members of staff resign in frustration whilst a few develop psychosomatic symptoms in prolonged cases of bullying. To remain relevant and competitive in todays dynamic world of business, the managements of establishments in Nigeria need to be proactive in analysing the risk factors that facilitate organisational deviant behaviours in their work environments, and address them in order to create more productive work climates.