Customary Conflict Resolution Mechanisms and Land Disputes Settlement in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State

Abstract

Land disputes have persisted in many communities in rural Nigeria due to the economic, cultural, and ancestral values attached to land and the reliance on customary mechanisms as first point of call for resolution of land disputes, despite the presence of formal legal systems. This study examined the efficacy of customary conflict resolution mechanisms in land dispute resolution within Anambra State. A qualitative research design was adopted for the study while purposive sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. The collected data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Findings revealed that the use of oath-taking and sanctions, community-based hearings, indigenous land knowledge, and reconciliation practices contribute effectively to the settlement of disputes. The study recommends continuous training of traditional institutions to enhance their skills in conflict resolution and improve sustainable peace.