CONFLICT RESOLUTION THROUGH AFRICAN INDIGENOUS INSTITUTIONS: A STUDY OF THE ESANS IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

African societies have unique ways of managing conflict before the advent of colonialism. The methods stressed the need of fostering a spirit of peace and mutual respect for both individuals and groups, in times of peace and in times of conflict. This was effectively ensured through the institutions of the council of elders and ageset organisations in Africa. However, various forms of conflict have become more pronounced in the post-colonial era in the past few years. These conflicts include gender-based violence, land related conflicts, family conflicts and value- based conflicts, among others. The study therefore analysed the prospect of indigenous methods of conflict resolution in dealing with the aforementioned glitches using the Esans as a case study. The paper adopts historical research design with the application of both primary and secondary data. The Primary data was obtained from archival sources and oral interviews from respondents. Secondary data was obtained from published textbooks, journal articles and internet. The study established that indigenous institutions were important to peace building and conflict resolution but were truncated by the coming of the colonial masters. It was therefore recommended that the government and other stakeholders should as a matter of necessity, place more emphasis on the use of indigenous institutions in conflict management and resolution in Africa. This will ensure and further promote peaceful co-existence which Africans are known for.