ABSTRACT
The need to explore the role of the traditional authority system in peacebuilding efforts cannot be overemphasised. This study examines how the traditional authority system engages in grassroots’ peacebuilding in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study adopts a mixed-method research design inclusive of a survey design administered among 236 respondents, four face-to-face, in-depth interviews with the Alajede Chiefs in the Ijede Kingdom, the High Chiefs of the Iru land, the High Chiefs of Epe, and the Chairman of Akoka Community Development Association. In addition, the study conducted a textual analysis to better understand the survey respondents’ perception of peace. The findings show that (i) peace is perceived more as safety of life and rest of mind; and (ii) promoting community solidarity, moral suasion, and discouraging hate-based mobilisation are the popular peacebuilding mechanisms among the traditional leaders across Lagos State, Nigeria.
