THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN CONFLICT PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This research examined the roles of traditional rulers to conflict prevention and management in Nigeria. The study population consisted of traditional rulers in the state. The study adopted a descriptive survey type, 180 members of traditional rulers in Sokoto State were sampled through simple random sampling technique. The researchers’ designed questionnaire titled Roles of Traditional Rulers in Conflict prevention and management Questionnaire was used as an instrument to elicit data from the respondents. The findings of the study showed that traditional rulers had many roles they play in conflict prevention and management in all ramifications. The study also revealed that there was no significant difference in the roles of traditional rulers in conflict prevention and management based on age and marital status. Based on the findings of the study, it was therefore, recommended that traditional rulers in the state should be familiar with the issues that are germane among individuals, social groups as well as providing the possible prevention and management to any conflict among them in the state purposely to enhance and facilitate sustainable democracy in the society.