AKU: An African Journal of Contemporary Research

This article examines the challenges faced by religious leaders in mediating the longstanding Aguleri–Umueri intercommunal conflict in Anambra State, Nigeria. It explores the most effective ways to address those challenges for lasting peace and harmony among the community members. While religious leaders are often seen as moral authorities and identity brokers with the ability to bridge divides, their effectiveness is limited by denominational rivalry, concerns about credibility, political interference, and a lack of institutional and material support. Using qualitative fieldwork, which includes semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary analysis, the study highlights both the opportunities and obstacles of clerical involvement in grassroots peace efforts. Results show that, although religious leaders played a crucial role in reducing hostility and promoting dialogue in the Aguleri-Umuleri conflict, their efforts often fell short due to certain intervening factors. The analysis, based on Social Identity Theory, Conflict Transformation Theory, and Peacebuilding Theory, reveals the paradox of religious leadership: it is highly influential yet structurally fragile. The article concludes that increasing ecumenical cooperation, maintaining neutrality, and embedding peace initiatives into permanent institutional frameworks are crucial for sustainable results. The practical contribution provides policymakers, faith-based organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with evidence-based recommendations and policy suggestions for enhancing the capacity of religious actors in intercommunal conflict resolution, both in Anambra State and in similarly divided communities across Nigeria and West Africa.

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