The Role of Local Government Councils in Conflict Resolution in Kebbi State

This study investigates the role of local government councils as primary governance institutions in managing and resolving conflicts at the community level in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Local government councils are the tier of government closest to the people and are mandated to address community-level disputes, yet their effectiveness in conflict resolution is often constrained by political interference, resource limitations, and weak institutional capacity. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 180 respondents including community members, local government council officials, and traditional leaders across Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Yauri local government areas. The theoretical framework draws from local governance theory and the principal-agent model of institutional effectiveness. Findings indicate that local government councils in Kebbi State play a passive rather than proactive role in conflict management, with the majority of disputes being handled informally by traditional rulers and community elders before reaching council structures. Where councils do intervene, their decisions are often perceived as politically biased, reducing community confidence in the process. The study recommends empowering local government councils with dedicated conflict resolution mandates and trained personnel, increasing financial allocations for peace initiatives at the LGA level, establishing joint local government-traditional ruler conflict resolution committees, and reducing partisan interference in local council operations in Kebbi State. Keywords: local government, conflict resolution, Kebbi State, governance, community peace.