CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND AFRICAN INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE: IGBO PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Conflict resolution theorized as the approaches and routes involved in enabling the peaceful ending of tussle and struggles, vengeance and retribution. Its importance and utility of the processes lie in the fact that they strive ‘to restore a balance, to settle conflict and eliminate disputes’, through the customs and traditions of peoples of Africa. This study will examine how the Igbo society of African descent resolved dispute. The method of Analysis is used. African conflict resolution method promotes consensus-building, social bridge reconstructions, as well, enactment of order in the society. Further, it finds out that, while the western world placed more emphasis on the judicial system presided over by council of elders, kings’ courts, peoples (open places) assemblies, etc; for dispute settlement and justice dispensation. African traditional conflict resolution techniques such as mediation, adjudication, reconciliation, and negotiation, as well as cross-examination employed by them in the past, offers great prospects for peaceful coexistence and harmonious relationships in post-conflict periods than the modern method of litigation settlements in law courts.