ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ADR) MECHANISMS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS SOCIAL CONFLICTS MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The study undertook a critical appraisal of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a tool for conflict prevention, management and resolutions in Nigeria. It is motivated by the intractable social conflicts that are threatening to tear the country apart, ranging from the Boko Haram insurgency, Fulani herdsmen attacks, Niger Delta militancy to the Indigenous People of Biafra problem. The main objectives sought were to determine the efficacy of traditional alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms like traditional rulers, religious leaders and social groups like Umu-ada as opposed to the use of force in resolving social conflicts amongst Nigerians. Survey research technique was employed in the study. Data procured from the field were statistically analyzed. Results obtained reveal that the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) bodies like traditional rulers, religious leaders and reputable traditional social groups will be more effective for the prevention, management and resolutions of social conflicts in Nigeria than the use of force. Based on these outcomes, the use of ADR bodies is recommended for Nigerian authorities in handling social conflicts in the country rather than the use of force.