The Effect of Land Disputes on Political Relations in Makurdi LGA, Benue State: A Case Study of Tiv-Fulani Conflicts
- Project Research
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Background of the Study
Land disputes have been a major source of conflict in many parts of Nigeria, particularly between ethnic groups competing for resources. In Makurdi Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, the conflict between the Tiv and Fulani communities over land ownership and grazing rights has had profound implications for political relations. These land disputes have led to violent clashes, displacement of people, and the disruption of local governance (Oluwaseun & Terhemba, 2023). The conflict, which often escalates due to political manipulation, has affected not only the social fabric of the communities involved but also political alliances, with local leaders aligning themselves along ethnic lines. This study seeks to examine the impact of land disputes on political relations in Makurdi LGA, focusing on the Tiv-Fulani conflicts and their effects on governance and political cooperation.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The ongoing land disputes between the Tiv and Fulani communities in Makurdi LGA have strained political relations and undermined the stability of local governance. These conflicts have led to increased violence, social division, and a breakdown in the trust between political leaders and the electorate (Adamu & Ikwen, 2024). Despite government efforts to mediate, the inability to resolve the land disputes has created political polarization, affecting development and governance in the area. This study aims to explore how these land disputes influence political relations in Makurdi LGA, focusing on the role of political actors in either exacerbating or alleviating the conflict.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
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To examine the effects of land disputes on political relations between the Tiv and Fulani communities in Makurdi LGA.
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To assess the role of political actors in either mitigating or exacerbating the Tiv-Fulani conflict.
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To explore the implications of the land dispute for local governance and political cooperation in Makurdi LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
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How do land disputes between the Tiv and Fulani communities affect political relations in Makurdi LGA?
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What role do political leaders play in either exacerbating or resolving the Tiv-Fulani land conflict?
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What are the implications of the land dispute for governance and political stability in Makurdi LGA?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
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Land disputes between the Tiv and Fulani communities have a significant impact on political relations in Makurdi LGA.
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Political actors in Makurdi LGA play a key role in either perpetuating or resolving land disputes.
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Resolving the land dispute will enhance political cooperation and governance in Makurdi LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of how ethnic and land disputes affect political relations and governance in Nigeria. By focusing on the Tiv-Fulani conflict in Makurdi LGA, the research will provide insights into the complexities of conflict management in multi-ethnic areas and offer recommendations for fostering political cooperation. The findings will be useful to policymakers, local leaders, and conflict resolution practitioners working in conflict-prone areas in Nigeria.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Makurdi LGA, Benue State, specifically examining the impact of land disputes between the Tiv and Fulani communities on political relations. The research is limited to the political aspect of the conflict and does not extend to broader socio-economic or cultural factors.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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Land Disputes: Conflicts arising from competing claims over land ownership, usage, or access, particularly involving different ethnic groups or communities.
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Political Relations: The interactions, alliances, and conflicts between political actors, parties, and the electorate in a specific area.
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Tiv-Fulani Conflict: A longstanding ethnic conflict between the Tiv and Fulani communities in central Nigeria, often centered around land ownership and grazing rights.
