ROOT CAUSES OF THE PERSISTENT COMMUNAL CONFLICT IN EMOHUA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE

Abstract

This study examines the nexus between communal conflict and livelihood in Emohua Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria. Drawing on scholarly perspectives on conflict, communal conflict, and livelihood systems, the paper argued that communal violence is not only a socio-political phenomenon rooted in incompatible interests, but also a major threat to human security, governance, and socio-economic development. It reviewed how factors such as historical grievances, ethnic rivalries, socio-economic disparities, competition over land and resources, political manipulation, leadership challenges, and external influences interact to create a cycle of violence and instability in the area. This paper further highlighted that the persistent recurrence of conflict disrupts livelihood strategies by undermining social relations, reducing economic productivity, and driving displacement and insecurity, thereby stagnating development and weakening the conditions for effective livelihood.
In response, the paper proposed a multifaceted framework for sustainable conflict resolution in Emohua, emphasizing community dialogue and mediation mechanisms, transparent and inclusive governance, clear chieftaincy regulation, youth-focused economic interventions, strengthened and community-aligned security approaches, interfaith tolerance initiatives, value and cultural revitalization, environmental management and restoration, and counter-radicalization strategies where relevant. The study concluded that durable peace in Emohua depends on coordinated actions by government, community leadership, and citizens to address the root causes of conflict holistically and to protect livelihoods while promoting reconciliation and development.