INDIGENOUS APPROACH TO FAMILY CONFLICT RESOLUTION AMONG SOME SELECTED FAMILIES IN IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Indigenous conflict resolution approaches served as the premium foundation for administrative authority by the elders in pre-colonial Yoruba land and are based on the understanding that disagreements cannot be avoided, nor should they be ignored. Therefore, if well managed, there will be harmonious living among the people.This study examined the indigenous approaches in conflict resolution among selected families in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 215 respondents (consisting of 191 conflicting parties and 24 mediators) from five (5) local government areas in Ibadan metropolis. An interview guide, in-depth interview of key informants and focus group discussions were used to obtain information from respondents on the causes and types of family conflict, indigenous conflict resolution approaches, patronage and satisfaction of families to conflict resolution approaches, roles of mediators,and the comparison between contemporary legal court systems and indigenous approaches. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and Chi-square statistics. Findings reveal that the most common indigenous conflict resolution approaches used by the respondents were mediation (61.4%), dialogue (60.9%), cross-examination (59.1%) and proverbial sayings (52.1%). The prominent conflict types identified by the respondents are marital conflict (68.8%), conflicts over land (65.6%), conflict over family inheritance (56.7%), and rivalry among co-wives (54.9%). Major causes of conflicts within the families in the study area were unmet needs (65.1%), poor communication (57.2%), ignorance (56.3%), intolerance (55.8%) and selfishness (52.1%). Majority (98.5%) of the respondents affirmed that they patronize family conflict resolution assembly out of which (54.4%) often visit the assembly. Institutional arrangements, elders, extended family members, and paternal and maternal relatives are responsible in mediating family conflicts and restore harmony among conflicting parties. Majority (92.0%) of the respondents were highly satisfied with the different family conflict resolution approaches used in the study area. Chi-Square results reveal a significant (p<0.05) association between satisfaction level (χ2= 75.11), patronage (χ2=186.52) and conflict resolution approaches used by the families. The study concluded that indigenous family conflict resolution approaches are still relevant and enjoy patronage amongst various families in Ibadan metropolis. Therefore, family members should endeavor to resolve conflicts amicably, especially in a way that will benefit all parties within the families, communities, and society at large.