Beyond Mediation: Climate Stress, Structural Violence, And the Persistence of Farmer–Herder Conflict in Benue State, Nigeria, 2015–2025

Elijah B.U. Chigweyaru; PhD

doi:10.56201/jpaswr.v11.no8.2026.pg111.130

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Beyond Mediation: Climate Stress, Structural Violence, And the Persistence of Farmer–Herder Conflict in Benue State, Nigeria, 2015–2025

Elijah B.U. Chigweyaru, PhD

Abstract

This study examines the persistence of farmer–herder conflict in Benue State, Nigeria, between 2015 and 2025, with particular emphasis on climate stress, structural violence and the limitations of mediation. This study is anchored on Climate security theory. A mixed-method case study design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study focused on Ogbadibo and Ohimini Local Government Areas. Quantitative data were obtained through structured questionnaires, while qualitative evidence was generated through interviews with relevant stakeholders and supported by documentary sources. The findings indicate that irregular rainfall, declining water availability, environmental degradation and changing pastoral mobility intensify competition over natural resources. The study further establishes that weak land governance, inadequate policy implementation, livelihood insecurity and limited institutional capacity contribute to the persistence of conflict. Although mediation facilitates dialogue and can reduce immediate tensions, its capacity to produce sustainable peace is constrained when underlying structural and environmental problems remain unresolved. The study recommends integrated climate adaptation, improved land and water governance, livelihood support, stronger institutions and inclusive environmental peacebuilding. It concludes that sustainable peace requires moving beyond mediation toward preventive and transformative approaches that address both climate-related pressures and structural vulnerabilities.

Keywords

Farmer–HerderClimate StressStructural ViolenceMediation

References

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Beyond Mediation: Climate Stress, Structural Violence, And the Persistence of Farmer–Herder Conflict in Benue State, Nigeria, 2015–2025

Abstract

Keywords

References

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