Authors: Paul ‘Seun Sosina
Abstract: This study examined conflict resolution mechanisms in Nigeria’s multi-ethnic society, focusing on the causes, effectiveness, challenges, and prospects of traditional and formal approaches. The study adopts Conflict Transformation Theory as its analytical framework and utilizes a qualitative desk-review methodology, drawing on secondary data from academic journals, books, institutional reports, and statutory frameworks to assess Nigeria’s conflict management architecture. Findings indicate that ethnic and religious diversity, political manipulation, poverty, inequality, unemployment, resource competition, marginalization, and weak governance contribute significantly to persistent conflicts. Traditional mechanisms demonstrate strengths in accessibility, cultural legitimacy, mediation, reconciliation, and restorative justice at the community level. However, their effectiveness is constrained by weak legal recognition, inadequate institutional support, gender exclusion, declining traditional authority, and limited capacity to manage large-scale conflicts. Formal mechanisms provide legal authority and enforceability but are weakened by high costs, delays, corruption, political interference, and limited cultural responsiveness. The study concludes that sustainable peace requires integrating traditional and formal mechanisms through hybrid structures, institutional reform, inclusive peacebuilding, socio-economic development, improved governance, and digital early-warning systems. The study recommends stronger legal recognition of indigenous mechanisms, expanded alternative dispute resolution, inclusive community participation, and coordinated multi-level peacebuilding.
