THE INTRACTABILITY OF VIOLENT CONFLICT IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

Nigeria grapples with a number of longstanding conflicts across regions. Plateau State is volatile and suffers episodic violent conflict. The state is trapped in a vicious cycle of violence which has escalated with great intensity especially in the last decade leading to great loss of lives and properties, displacements of individuals from their homes as well as a deeply divided society. All efforts by state and non-state actors to address the lingering conflict appears inadequate. Previous studies relate the conflict to ethno-religious crises, violent intercommunal, sectarian and resource-based conflicts yet, understanding and addressing the complexity of the conflict remains daunting. Hence, this study attempts to address this puzzle by explaining the intractability of the violent conflict in Plateau State. To achieve this, the study examines the dynamics and actors, to the recurring conflict. A case study approach has been applied is carrying out the study using broad sources of data including Key Informant Interview (KII), observation, and secondary sources such as journals, books and official reports. The study suggests that the crises in Plateau State evolved through five phases which are influenced by competing citizens claim, mutual feeling of victimisation and the activities of violent entrepreneurs. It identifies media, ethnic groups, political actors, youth group, arm dealers, security agencies, and government agencies as the major actors in the conflict who are mostly motivated by identity, human needs and, profiteering interests. The Study concludes by advocating for a short, medium and long terms solutions anchored on multi-stakeholder approach.