JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society

Nigeria in general and Southern Kaduna in particular have recorded bitter experiences of violent conflicts in various forms like ethno-religious conflicts in particular. Since the early 1980s, ethnic and religious crises have become a re-occurring decimal, especially in northern Nigeria. This study looked at the protracted ethno-religious conflicts in Southern Kaduna, identifying the causes and implications of the conflicts. The structural conflict theory was used as the theoretical framework for the study. The study used the descriptive and analytical research methodology. Data were obtained from secondary sources and the findings show that the ethno religious conflicts in the area in focus is caused by political, economic, social factors, indigene/settlers dichotomy etc. The study adopted the three principles namely: responsible peacekeeping, peace-making, and continuous peace building as strategies to end the conflicts. This study aims at discussing the factors that have fuelled ethno-religious conflicts in southern Kaduna and suggests possible solutions. The study concludes with recommendations including how Government must ensure that political, social and economic development strategies are integrated into the approaches of conflict prevention, management, and peace-building efforts at all levels. And finally proposes ways on how Religious leaders, traditional rulers, security personnel, NGOs, Civil Society Organisations, must all put in their best to end the conflicts.

Open Full Text (PDF)