THE ROLE OF INDIGENOUS CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISM TO RESOLVE CONFLICT: THE CASE OF OGET AMONG KEBENA PEOPLE

Abstract

The central objective of this paper is to investigate the role indigenous conflict resolution mechanism case of Oget in Kebena people. The main objective of the study was to assess the main causes of Conflict, the role of the Oget conflict resolution Mechanism to resolve Conflict and institution in indigenous conflict resolution in Kebena people. Qualitative research methodology was employed in the study for its appropriateness to assess the indigenous conflict resolution in the study area and data was collected through the use of interview, key informant interview and focus group discussion. The results obtained from the study suggest that conflicts in Kebena people as in anywhere else, may vary from trivial interpersonal disagreements to a serious dispute which might eventually lead to homicide. The most common conflict issues in Kebena people are land, grazing land and water for their livestock. The finding of the study shows that there exists high tendency among Kebena people to solve their conflicts mostly through traditional mechanisms. This is due to the fact that they have a belief that traditional mechanisms are by far better than the modern court procedure as the former is possible to procedure win-win result which is instrumental for conflicting parties feature cordial relationship, easily accessible time saving, less costly and vital for social stability. The study concluded that indigenous mechanisms are still relevant and should be main streamed in all processes of conflict management