Conflict Management and Sustainable Development in the Post-Pandemic Era: The Nigerian Experience

Abstract

Conflict as a social problem has been identified as an indispensable feature of every given human society. Its emergence can be rightly linked to the diverse interests of the various component units and factions of the Nigerian Polity. Prior to the outbreak of the dreaded Corona Virus Pandemic which disrupted virtually all forms of human activities both in Nigeria and diaspora, conflict situations is not alien to our society. However, the post Pandemic Era in the Nigerian history has continued to witness an unprecedented surge in the cases of conflicts which includes but not limited to: the persistent clamour for restructuring, the end SARS saga, secessionist movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra, the emergence of the yet to be identified arm wielding sect (unknown gunmen), farmers/herders clashes, and the recent cases of jungle justice in some parts of South East Nigeria, owing to the breakdown of security architecture in the Polity. It is against this backdrop that the study seeks a pragmatic approach to conflict management and resolution, as well as makes necessary recommendations to forestall subsequent occurrences. The paper examines the nature and causes of social conflicts in Nigeria’s post-pandemic era and the negative impacts of such on the lives and properties of citizens, as well as the implication of not resolving them amicably to the sustainable development of the country. The study anchors on Social Justice Theory as a framework of analysis. It adopts both primary and secondary sources of data collection. The finding shows that there was lack of appropriate mode of engaging aggrieved parties to achieve peaceful conflict resolution. It recommends above all, mutual respect for the fundamental rights of the Nigerian citizens, a people oriented approach to conflict management and resolution, as well as the indispensability of peaceful coexistence as a prerequisite for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.