Zamfara State Second Peace Initiative: Architecture for the Neighborhood States, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examine the origin, nature, dynamics and prospects of the second peace initiative by the zamfara state government in managing the eight year old social conflict between Fulani herdsmen and local people in the state. While providing an insight in to the factors responsible for the collapse of the "first peace initiative” instituted by the immediate past administration of Governor Yari, the paper conducted critical examination of key peace indicators that may likely make the current initiative distinguished from the former one. It also provides a critical review of causes and consequences of the social conflict that characterized the state for eight years. The paper has equally provides in comparative terms reasons why other neighboring states like Katsina, Sokoto and Kebbi need to key in to the peace initiative of Zamfara state in order to ensure lasting peace in the region. The paper adopted mixed methodology of extensive field interview using purposive sampling method as well literature review.