Curbing the Prevalence of Inter-communal Conflicts in Nigeria: The Public Relations Perspective

Abstract

This study examined the application of Public Relations (PR) Strategies in the Management and Resolution of Inter-Communal Conflicts in Nigeria. Public relations strategies can be applied to create the needed understanding, support and cooperation that will ensure peaceful co-existence in our communities. These strategies alsoplay vital role(s) in conflict prevention as they help to identify issues that would have individually or collectively, resulted to conflicts, which are usually nipped in the bud. There is a significant link between application of Public Relations strategies and peaceful co-existence among warring communities. The study adopted Frank Jefkins PR Transfer Process and Two-way Symmetric Models as Theoretical Framework. It recommended among others, that traditional and other community stakeholders should adopt Public Relations strategies in the management of inter-communal conflicts. State governments should establish functional Public Relations departments in all its Local Government Areas and employ Public Relations professionals to head such units. These professionals should provide profitable link between local communities and the state government, especially during periods of conflicts among communities.