Igba Ndu (Covenant and Ritual Treaties); A Strategy for Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Edda.

Abstract

The end point of every conflict is devastating and the aftermath trauma last longer than the conflicts itself. Therefore, it is paramount to prevent conflicts before it erupts. However, when conflict prevention fails, resolution should be immediately initiated through strategic means viable. This study examines Igba ndu (Covenant and Ritual treaties) as a strategy for conflict prevention and resolution with emphasis Edda in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Conflicts if not prevented or resolved leaves destruction of lives and properties including fear, economic disaster in its trail. In order to arrive to the needed result, this paper adopted historic descriptive method. It was discovered that the issue of conflict prevention and resolution is not a recent phenomenon. It observed that these communal conflicts are repeatedly caused by either land tussle/ownership or political interest. It also found that the resolution reached in order to maintain peace and order after conflicts are not steadily observed thereby collapsing the structures in place. The paper recommends a solid structure be put in place so as to checkmate vices that result to conflicts. The paper concludes by noting that, no economic activity, infrastructural development and good governance can strive in a conflict zone or area.