IGBO SOCIETY AND CULTURE: How Disputes are Resolved in Igbo Villages
In Igbo villages in Nigeria, disputes are resolved through a process known as “Igbo traditional dispute resolution.” This method of resolving disputes has been in practice for centuries and is still prevalent in many rural areas of the country. The Igbo people are known for their strong sense of community and their ability to work together to resolve conflicts peacefully.
The Igbo traditional dispute resolution process involves a series of steps, with the first being the identification of the dispute. Once a dispute is identified, the parties involved are called to a meeting known as the “Umunna.” The Umunna is a gathering of the extended family members of the parties involved, and it is usually presided over by an elder or a respected member of the community.
At the Umunna, the parties involved are given an opportunity to state their case and present their evidence. The elder or respected member of the community then listens to both sides and tries to find a solution that is satisfactory to all parties involved. The elder or respected member of the community is not a judge but rather a mediator who helps the parties involved to find a peaceful resolution.
If the parties involved are unable to come to an agreement at the Umunna, the matter is then escalated to the village council. The village council is made up of the leaders of the community, and they are responsible for making decisions that affect the entire village. The village council also acts as an appellate court for disputes that could not be resolved at the Umunna.
The village council listens to both sides of the dispute and makes a ruling based on the evidence presented. The ruling of the village council is final and binding, and it is respected by all members of the community. This is because the village council is seen as a representation of the entire community and its decision is seen as the decision of the community.
It is important to note that the Igbo traditional dispute resolution process is not a legal process, and it is not binding on parties who do not wish to participate. However, it is a highly respected process that has been in practice for centuries and is still prevalent in many rural parts of Nigeria.
The Igbo traditional dispute resolution process has many advantages over the legal process. Firstly, it is a much cheaper process than going to court, as there are no legal fees involved. Secondly, it is a much quicker process than going to court, as disputes are resolved within the community and do not have to wait for the slow legal process.
Another advantage of the Igbo traditional dispute resolution process is that it is a much more peaceful process than going to court. The process is focused on finding a peaceful resolution that is satisfactory to all parties involved, rather than punishing the guilty party. This makes it a much less confrontational process than going to court, which can be a traumatic experience for the parties involved.
In conclusion, the Igbo traditional dispute resolution process is a highly respected process that has been in practice for centuries. It is a process that is focused on finding a peaceful resolution that is satisfactory to all parties involved. It is a much cheaper, quicker, and more peaceful process than going to court, making it a preferred method of resolving disputes in many rural areas of Nigeria.
Written by Jideofo Okibe,(Obinwannem News correspondent Enugwu State)
Date: May 14, 2024
Ubochi Eke Oku
Published by Ngozi Odoh (Obinwannem Nsukka Office Secretary)
