Hussaini Abdu’s Clash of Identities delves into the complex ethno-religious conflicts in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Kaduna State, and examines how centralized traditional institutions and a culture of impunity fuel these tensions. He argues for decentralizing traditional leadership, allowing communities to choose their leaders independently, and encourages these institutions to promote dialogue and peacebuilding. Abdu highlights the need for justice and accountability to prevent further violence. Though focused on Kaduna, his insights offer broader lessons for understanding and addressing ethno-religious conflicts across Northern Nigeria.
Hussaini Abdu’s Partitioned Borgu provides readers with a pioneering scholarly examination of Borgu, tracing its history from the pre-colonial era through to the post-colonial period. The book delves into the region’s complexities, nuances, and societal dynamics across different phases, highlighting the influence of the state and society. Abdu particularly focuses on the role of imperial powers, especially during the colonial era. The work enriches discussions on colonial borders, identity politics, and rural political economies, while shedding light on the challenges faced by one of West Africa’s most marginalized and excluded border regions.