Impact of Traditional Rulers on Peace Sustenance in Local Communities of Ekiti State

Abstract

Local communities in Nigeria and other parts of the world still experience one form of conflict or the other despite peace-building techniques to maintain peace. The peaceful cohabitation of the Nigerian people has been repeatedly disrupted by some operations, which have constituted a serious security danger to the people, especially in the local communities. The traditional leaders in the communities frequently exert great effort through various channels to promote dispute resolution and guarantee peaceful coexistence among the tribes in their separate spheres of influence. This study assessed the impact of traditional rulers in sustaining peace in the local governments of Ekiti State. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design, gathering data through questionnaire administration and published works. The study revealed that traditional rulers have a significant role in maintaining security for sustainable development in the local communities in Nigeria. It was discovered that traditional rulers played significant roles in maintaining and sustaining peace in Ekiti State Local Governments by settling conflicts among their subjects in their domains. The study concluded that traditional institutions, mainly traditional rulership, remained a reliable force to be reckoned with in maintaining peace. This has been made possible by the Yoruba traditions and spiritualities' immense strength and tenacity, which have significantly impacted their lives and actions.

Keywords: Traditional Rulers, Conflicts, Peace Keeping, Local Communities

DOI: 10.7176/PPAR/13-4-02

Publication date:May 31^st 2023