Utilization of Community-Based Institutions in Addressing Farmers-Herders Conflict in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the role of community based institutions in addressing farmers-herders conflict in Benue State, Nigeria. The conflict has shifted from localized disputes into a prolonged crisis which affects daily life. The study aimed to identify community institutions involved in conflict management, examine traditional mediation approaches across selected local government areas, and evaluate their outcomes and effectiveness. A cross-sectional design guided the study. Data came from 384 respondents drawn from conflict affected local government areas across the three senatorial zones of Benue State. The study used structured questionnaires, Key Informant Interviews, and community discussions. A multistage sampling procedure guided respondent selection. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis supported data analysis. Findings show strong reliance on traditional institutions as first responders to conflict, although dominant actors differ across locations. Religious leaders led mediation in Katsina Ala with 79.4% reliance. Village heads and elders accounted for more than 80 percent in Kwande. Village heads handled 66.2% of cases in Guma and 82.8% in Gwer West. Elders’ councils dominated in Agatu with 55.9% while chiefs led in Apa with 64.5%. Mediation and dialogue formed the core strategies. Compensation and spiritual rites appeared less often. These processes reduced violence but rarely produced lasting peace. Temporary ceasefires appeared as the most common outcome in several areas. Community institutions retain social legitimacy but face limits due to conflict militarization, weak enforcement capacity, and exclusion from state responses. Sustainable peace requires hybrid peacebuilding models which connect traditional authorities with formal governance and security institutions.