Background of the Study
Traditional rulers in many parts of Nigeria, including Keffi Local Government Area (LGA) in Nasarawa State, have historically played a central role in maintaining peace and order within their communities. Beyond their symbolic roles, these leaders are often called upon to resolve disputes, including those related to environmental issues such as land degradation, water resources, deforestation, and boundary conflicts. Environmental conflicts in rural areas often arise due to competition over land and natural resources, especially as communities grapple with issues like population growth, climate change, and shifting agricultural practices. In Keffi, these conflicts have been exacerbated by increasing human activity, such as farming, mining, and the destruction of natural habitats. Traditional rulers, due to their deep understanding of local customs and systems, often mediate these disputes and provide solutions that are culturally acceptable to the people. However, the effectiveness of their roles in environmental conflict resolution remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the role and effectiveness of traditional rulers in addressing environmental conflicts in Keffi Local Government Area (Baba & Danjuma, 2024).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Keffi Local Government Area, environmental conflicts are becoming more prevalent, particularly due to land disputes, the depletion of forest resources, and pollution. While traditional rulers play an essential role in conflict resolution, their effectiveness is often questioned, especially in the face of modern governance structures and legal frameworks. This study will investigate the extent to which traditional rulers can influence environmental conflict resolution and the strategies they employ to manage disputes within their communities.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
• To evaluate the role of traditional rulers in resolving environmental conflicts in Keffi Local Government Area.
• To assess the effectiveness of traditional rulers' interventions in mitigating environmental disputes.
• To explore the relationship between traditional leadership and modern environmental governance in conflict resolution.
1.4 Research Questions
• What role do traditional rulers play in environmental conflict resolution in Keffi?
• How effective are traditional rulers in addressing environmental disputes in their communities?
• What are the challenges faced by traditional rulers in resolving environmental conflicts in Keffi?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
• H1: Traditional rulers in Keffi have a significant influence on resolving environmental conflicts within their communities.
• H2: The interventions of traditional rulers in environmental conflict resolution are more effective than those of formal governance structures.
• H3: Traditional rulers face challenges such as lack of resources and legal authority when resolving environmental conflicts.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will offer insights into the practical role of traditional rulers in managing environmental conflicts, highlighting their importance in maintaining environmental peace in Keffi Local Government Area. The findings will be useful for local governments, policymakers, and environmental NGOs, contributing to a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to conflict resolution in Nigeria. Understanding how traditional rulers can be more effectively integrated into modern environmental governance strategies may also help improve the overall effectiveness of conflict management (Baba & Danjuma, 2024).
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Keffi Local Government Area and examine only the role of traditional rulers in environmental conflict resolution. Limitations include potential biases from local perceptions of traditional leadership and challenges in accessing reliable data from the rural communities involved in conflicts.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• Traditional Rulers: Local leaders who hold positions of authority and influence based on cultural traditions and customs.
• Environmental Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving disputes related to the use or management of natural resources and environmental issues.
• Conflict Mitigation: The efforts to reduce the severity or frequency of conflicts, particularly through mediation and negotiation.
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