A Systems Analysis of Violent Conflict in Riyom LGA, Plateau State Community Participatory Action Research Report

The "Building Bridge for Peace" project, implemented by the Youth Initiative Against Violence and Human Rights Abuse (YIAVHA) with support from the Knowledge Platform Security & Rule of Law, is a Community Participatory Action Research (CPAR) initiative focused on analysing violent conflicts in Riyom LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria. Utilising a systems analysis approach, the study explored the key driving factors (KDFs) contributing to the persistence of farmer-herder conflicts and other forms of violence in the area. This research was conducted across eight conflict-affected communities, with the ultimate goal of identifying the causes and exploring the potential of intergenerational storytelling, exchange visits, and intercommunity dialogues to foster peace and reconciliation.

The research was informed by both qualitative and quantitative data gathered through 330 questionnaires, 25 key informant interviews (KIIs), and 19 dialogue engagements with 1,033 participants. Key findings highlighted the interplay between recurring cycles of displacement, substance abuse, and crime, leading to offender protection practices. Fear, tension, and violence between farmers and herders have influenced access to land for agricultural purposes. Children and young people play a key role in determining community peace. The displacement of herders and farmers increases the vulnerabilities of farms and livestock. Drug abuse prevention efforts by state authorities have not been adequately supported, despite the surge in abuse and its impact on peace and security. Dialogue and mediation platforms have been disrupted due to the loss of territories and the diminishing influence of community leaders caused by forced displacement.