Modeling Perennial Communal Land Conflict in Nigeria: A Study of Nchoko Igbeagu Izzi, Ebonyi State

Abstract

This paper focused on modeling perennial communal land conflict in Nigeria: A study of Nchoko Igbeagu Izzi, Ebonyi State The paper looked at the concept elucidation of conflict, land conflict, perennial communal conflict, conflict management and perennial land conflict management. It examined various consequences of conflict. The paper identified, developed and classified major models to conflict management approach into traditional, modern and trad-modern approaches in management of perennial land conflict in Nchoko Igbeagu Izzi, Ebonyi State. The paper was anchored on Greed-Grievance Theory. Research design adopted for the study was both qualitative and quantitative. Primary data were generated through interview and focused group discussion while secondary data was gotten from textbooks and journals. Content Analytical Approach was used to analyze the data. From findings made through oral interview, it was observed that communal land conflict usually burst during planting season of the year and that conflict occurs due to injustice and domination. The implications of this are that production is reduced, supply of goods and services are halted and a lot of attacks were witnessed. The paper concludes that leaders at all levels should be transparent and impartial in handling complaints. However, based on the findings it was recommended that leaders at all level in the community should be transparent and justly handle land complaint, negotiation instead of confrontation should be adopted in conflict resolution and mediators should avoid kick-back in conflict settlement.