The Role of the Church in Conflict Resolution: A Case Study of Selected Communities in Plateau State

This research investigates the role of the Christian church as a mediating institution in communal conflict resolution in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, a region with a well-documented history of ethno-religious tensions. Using a descriptive case study approach, the study focuses on three communities in Jos North and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas that have experienced recurring conflicts between 2019 and 2024. Primary data are obtained through in-depth interviews with fifteen church leaders, ten community elders, and eight representatives of civil society organizations. Secondary data are drawn from church reconciliation reports, government white papers, and published journal articles within the last five years. The study finds that churches in the affected communities have served as neutral ground for dialogue, provided trauma counselling to displaced persons, and facilitated inter-ethnic prayer summits that helped de-escalate tensions. However, the research also identifies limitations including denominational rivalries, lack of trained conflict resolution personnel within church structures, and the perception of bias when churches are seen as advocating for one ethnic group. The study recommends the establishment of an inter-denominational peace desk in each local government area, with professionally trained mediators drawn from theological institutions. These findings have implications for policy makers, religious bodies, and non-governmental organizations working in conflict-affected areas of Nigeria. Keywords: church, conflict resolution, Plateau State, peacebuilding, ethno-religious tension