The Role of Traditional Rulers in Peace Building in Zangon-Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State Nigeria

Student: Abdulqudus Abdulazeez (Project, 2025)
Department of Political Science
Bayero University, Kano, Kano State

Abstract

The role of traditional rulers in peacebuilding remains crucial in conflict-prone areas like Zangon-Kataf Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. This study explores how these rulers mediate conflicts, promote reconciliation, and foster peaceful coexistence among ethnic and religious groups in the region. Despite their declining formal authority, traditional rulers continue to play a significant role in resolving disputes, particularly in areas where government interventions are limited. The study highlights past and recent conflicts, including the 1992 and 2020 crises, which have deepened ethnic and religious divisions. It examines the efforts of the Agwatyap traditional leadership in facilitating dialogue, organizing peace summits, and addressing tensions over land ownership, political control, and cultural differences. Using secondary data sources, the research assesses the effectiveness of these peacebuilding strategies and identifies the challenges traditional rulers face in maintaining stability. The findings contribute to understanding the impact of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms and offer insights into strengthening traditional leadership roles in peacebuilding in Nigeria.

Keywords
traditional rulers peace building zangon-kataf local government kaduna state nigeria
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