Peace and Conflict Resolution: A dimensional discourse of the oil producing communities in NIGERIA.

Abstract

Conflict is a national phenomenon and an unavoidable consequence of human interaction in any society. It can take many shapes in the work place and community; it can occur between people representing different organizational units, it can occur between people who work together. Conflict is a dynamic process that is precipitated, developed and governed by the joint communication strategies of the parties involved.

In support of the above viewpoint is Ukadu (1999) who stated that conflict is a natural occurrence in everyday inter-relationship. Any organization without conflict problems implies that the organization is not dynamic and nothing significant is going on in the organization. Conflict is a fact of life and it occurs between individuals (inter-personal conflict) or between groups (inter-group conflict) individuals engaged in conflict typically experience  stress, anger, bitterness, frustration and anxiety, yet this natural outcome of relationship between individuals and groups makes an organization  move forward if well managed. However, indifference to it, threatens the very existence of an organization.

On the other hand, peace is an agreement or treaty between warring or antagonistic Nations, groups etc. it is also a state of mutual harmony between people or groups, especially in personal relationships. It is the cessation of or freedom   of  any strife or dissension.

On the premise of the above expressions, this piece of work discusses the following salient issues.

*The meaning, nature, concept of conflict and peace.

*The need for peace.

*The causes of conflicts in  the oil producing communities.

*The ingredients of conflict.

*The effects or consequences of conflicts.

*The different methods adopted in the management of conflicts .

*Conflicts Resolution strategies.

*How to end the conflicts in the oil producing Areas.