CONFLICT RESOLUTION AMONG EBIRATAO ETHNIC GROUP OF NORTH- CENTRAL NIGERIA IN PRE-COLONIAL TIMES

Abstract

This paper focussed on traditional conflict management and resolution among Ebira Tao ethnic group prior to British occupation of Nigeria. Traditionally, Ebira Tao society evolves cultural norms for resolving conflict through oath - taking; invocation of the ancestor’s spirit, oracle consultation, and mutual consultation, elder’s deliberation, and unwritten coded law that serve as pinnacle for societal regulation. The main objective of the paper is to highlight some of these traditional institutions that served as instruments for conflict resolution, and some of which are still helpful in recent time in resolving disputes among the people of Ebira nation. Using primary sources – mainly oral and archival materials – with secondary sources: previous research publications by scholars in the field; the paper approach the topic within the context of modern day conflict and resolution. The research findings suggests that some of the existing traditional institutions and associations established by the Ebira nation in recent time were an offshoot of the ancient traditional practices even though most of these institutions have been modified and realigned based on existing modern laws since the beginning of colonial administration.