Language and Communication for Domestic Conflict Resolution in Nigeria

Abstract

Language and communication can be through verbal, non-verbal or written media. What defines humanity is language which is the vehicle of communication. Language is regarded as the key to the heart of a people. Language and communication, therefore, are very crucial in the management and resolution of conflicts or disputes between the parties in a conflict situation. This paper examines how language and communication can be used as weapons in the resolution of domestic conflicts. It argues that since every human being has a family or a home, the starting point for addressing conflicts of whatever dimension should be the home through the use of language and communication. It further argues that language and communication are indispensable in this world of wars and continued eruption of conflicts and disputes. The paper concludes that language and communication should be more analysed and utilized in the management and resolution of conflicts in the society. The significance of the arguments of this paper is that if domestic conflicts are eliminated or curbed through the simple and more cost-effective means of language and communication, then conflicts and wars on the wider scene would also diminish and nations can devote more resources to development projects.

Key Words: Language, Communication, Conflict, Family, Home.