The Role of Mediation in the Adadama-Amagu Conflict, 1912-2023

Abstract

This study is a critical examination of the role of mediation in the Adadama-Amagu conflict which is defined by the parameters of success and failure. Mediation, as a third party means of resolving conflict, has been needed and more frequently, jettisoned by the conflicting parties thereby leaving the conflict unresolved. It is in this light that this study, relying on qualitative method of analysis tailored with primary and secondary sources, examines the role played by mediators in resolving the conflict as its main goal. While the rational choice theory anchors the motives of the conflicting parties and the mediators, it was found that the mediation process minimally succeeded and perhaps, seriously failed. Consequently, this failure is due to the complex history of the conflict, incompatible interests of Adadama and Amagu; and conduct of the mediators. This arose as a dramatic game of non-recognition of the inter-tribal boundary line and deliberate cross-border trespassing by Adadama and Amagu of Cross River and Ebonyi States respectively. In addressing these gaps, the study argues that the engagements between the mediators and conflicting parties would require a high level of dialogic competences and persuasion. As situated within this purview, the study therefore, recommends the cooperative problem-solving approach to the conflict as a solution-based answer.