A STUDY OF THE OKASIBI TRADITIONAL APPROACH TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION

A STUDY OF THE OKASIBI TRADITIONAL APPROACH TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Just like any other human society, various forms of conflict are evident across the diverse communities of Africa. The multitude of affected groups has resulted in a broad spectrum of responses to such conflicts (Run, 2019). In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in the appreciation for indigenous strategies in resolving conflicts of varying intensities—whether high, medium, or low tempo—as part of broader efforts to achieve peaceful coexistence within communities. These strategies are among the many measures undertaken to maintain harmony. Although the conflict resolution mechanisms utilized by African indigenous groups are not universally identical, they share a foundational principle: peace is not solely about halting hostilities or solving disputes. Rather, it centers on restoring damaged relationships (Malan, 2017; Komuhangi, 2016). This principle is rooted in traditional African systems of conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding—approaches that have often been overlooked in dominant conflict resolution frameworks. Several pertinent questions arise: What were the root causes of disputes in African societies prior to colonization? What traditional methods existed for resolving conflicts? How do the precolonial conflicts compare to those seen in contemporary Africa? Can gaining deeper insights into indigenous conflict resolution aid in solving present-day problems? Can indigenous practices be recognized and integrated into a broader framework of conflict resolution? Is there potential for blending these indigenous approaches with Western perspectives to craft a more effective, locally grounded strategy? Could Africa design its own version of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) tailored to its persistent and complex challenges? What role should traditional peacebuilding systems play in today’s African conflict resolution processes? (Berhe, 2011). Furthermore, what valuable insights can the Okasibi people contribute to the rest of Africa? What kinds of conflicts typically arise in the Okasibi region, and what are their sources? How are the indigenous Okasibi conflict resolution methods applied in contemporary times? What is the operational capacity of these traditional approaches, and how sustainable are they in the long run? What mechanisms define the indigenous conflict resolution system in Okasibi, and what are their advantages and limitations? These and other critical questions have driven the focus of this research, which aims to examine the Okasibi indigenous method of conflict management. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Conflict is an inevitable and inherent aspect of human existence. In Africa, although formal institutions have long been used to address disputes, these methods often fall short of achieving lasting peace and resolution. Moreover, formal systems are typically inaccessible to the general population, time-consuming, financially burdensome, excessively procedural, and focused heavily on individual culpability and punitive measures (Mac, 2018). As a result, many people have lost trust in the fairness and effectiveness of these official systems. This research, therefore, aims to examine the Okasibi indigenous method of conflict management as a viable alternative. 1.3 Objective of the Study The main goal of this study is to critically examine the indigenous conflict management method practiced in Okasibi. The specific objectives include: i. To identify the causes of conflict within the Okasibi region. ii. To explore the various indigenous approaches to conflict management employed in Okasibi. iii. To evaluate the effectiveness of these indigenous approaches. iv. To analyze the challenges affecting the efficiency of the Okasibi indigenous conflict resolution method. 1.4 Research Questions The following research questions guide the study: i. What are the sources of conflict in Okasibi land? ii. What indigenous approaches are used to manage conflict in Okasibi? iii. How effective are these indigenous approaches in resolving conflict? iv. What challenges hinder the effectiveness of the Okasibi indigenous conflict resolution methods? 1.5 Research Hypotheses To support the investigation, the following hypotheses have been developed: H₀: The indigenous conflict management method used in Okasibi is not effective. H₁: The indigenous conflict management method used in Okasibi is effective. 1.6 Significance of the Study This study is significant due to the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s justice system. It advocates for the inclusion and promotion of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, which would make conflict resolution more accessible and foster peaceful coexistence. The study’s findings may assist formal conflict resolution institutions, such as courts, in evaluating the integration of traditional mechanisms into their processes. It could lay the foundation for harmonizing modern judicial procedures with indigenous systems of conflict management. Additionally, the research could provide valuable insights for governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Justice and institutions concerned with national cohesion. These insights would support the structured use of indigenous methods in delivering justice. It may also contribute to the development of training materials for special magistrates, judges, and traditional leaders. These materials would cover the activities, methodologies, and relevance of traditional institutions in managing disputes in contemporary Nigeria. 1.7 Scope of the Study This study focuses on analyzing the indigenous conflict management techniques practiced in Okasibi. It will investigate the causes of conflict within the community and examine the role and functioning of Okasibi’s traditional institutions in conflict resolution. Furthermore, it aims to identify the various approaches used, assess their relevance in today’s society, and uncover challenges in their application. 1.8 Limitation of the Study As is common in most research, the study faced a few limitations. Financial constraints posed a challenge to the researcher’s ability to access relevant materials, literature, and to effectively carry out data collection through online resources, questionnaires, and interviews. This limitation influenced the choice of a modest sample size. Moreover, the researcher had to balance the demands of this study with other academic responsibilities. Consequently, time allocated to the research was somewhat limited. 1.9 Definition of Terms Conflict: A prolonged disagreement or serious argument between parties. Conflict Management: The methodical handling of perceived differences or disputes that arise due to varying viewpoints, objectives, or needs.