Land, Identity and Bloodshed: How Communal Conflicts Shape Nigeria's Struggle for Peace

Where land becomes contested, identity becomes fragile, and peace becomes a shared responsibility.Land, Identity and Bloodshed: How Communal Conflicts Shape Nigeria's Struggle for Peace offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary exploration of how land, identity, history, governance, and community relations intersect in Nigeria's communal conflicts. Going beyond the immediate causes of violence, the book examines the historical foundations of land tenure, the evolution of competing claims, and the human consequences that follow when disputes become entrenched. With Nigeria as its primary focus, this work also draws broader comparative insights to place local conflicts within a wider understanding of land-related violence and peacebuilding. It considers not only why conflicts emerge, but also what can be done to address their deeper roots. From justice and institutional reform to psychosocial healing and inclusive participation, the book explores practical pathways toward reconciliation and sustainable peace. This book is written for students and scholars of political science, peace and conflict studies, African studies, sociology, history, law, development, and governance, as well as policymakers, researchers, community leaders, educators, and readers seeking a deeper understanding of Nigeria's land-related conflicts. Readers will gain a clearer understanding of the historical and social forces behind communal disputes, insight into how land and identity shape conflict, and a framework for thinking about evidence-based responses. By connecting history, governance, human experience, and peacebuilding, Land, Identity and Bloodshed encourages readers to look beyond violence itself and consider the conditions needed to build lasting peace.