IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH (IJSSMR )

E-ISSN 2545-5303
P-ISSN 2695-2203
VOL. 11 NO. 3 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijssmr.vol.11no3.2025.pg.100.117

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Empirical Assessment of the Driving Factors and Challenges of Communal Conflicts in Lagos Metropolis

Orobiyi Musendiq Aremu PhD, Fasuan Emmanuel Olawale PhD

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Abstract

This research offers an empirical analysis of community disputes in the Lagos Metropolis area, focussing on the reasons that contribute to these conflicts, the difficulties they present, and the countermeasures that may be taken. The research analyses major factors that lead to conflict, assesses the socio-economic and political ramifications of the conflict, and suggests actions that may be implemented in a sustainable manner to promote peace. Using a quantitative research methodology, data were collected through a structured questionnaire that was sent to community leaders and citizens in each of the twenty local government areas of Lagos. A total of 376 individuals responded to the questionnaire. The data indicate that the cause of community disputes in the Lagos Metropolis is a complex interaction between a variety of factors, including social, economic, structural, and political elements. More specifically, land conflicts, ethnic and cultural tensions, political rivalry, young restlessness, resource competitiveness, and economic inequities were highlighted as significant causes of the conflict. For further information, the report highlights the catastrophic personal, social, and economic implications of these wars. These consequences include the loss of life, the damage of property, the relocation of people without their will, and the disruption of the economy. It is advised that a comprehensive strategy to conflict resolution be utilised in order to solve these difficulties. This approach should include the implementation of peace education, equitable land use regulations, youth empowerment initiatives, inter-communal discussion, community policing, and severe enforcement of legal measures against those who commit crimes. These initiatives, if effectively implemented, would contribute to the reduction of community disputes and the promotion of long-term peace in the Lagos Metropolis Metropolitan Area.

keywords:

Communal, Conflict, Metropolis, Lagos, Peace

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