Language and Communication for Domestic Conflict Resolution in Nigeria

Abstract

Language in action can be seen in terms of verbal, non-verbal and written media. Therefore, language and communication are sine qua non in this world of words and continued eruptions of conflicts or disputes. What defines human’s humanity is language which is the vehicle of communication. People, therefore, engage in communication for many reasons and for the purpose of this paper, we shall examine the roles and functions of communication as one of the means of non-violent methods of conflict resolution. Language is regarded by experts as the key to the heart of a people. Language and communication, therefore, are very crucial in the management and resolution of conflicts or disputes between the two parties in conflicts. As important as language and communication are in conflicts and conflict resolutions, it has not been given adequate attention in the works of many writers and researchers. This paper, therefore, identifies communication as a significant means of resolving conflicts. Other non-violent methods of management and resolution of conflicts where the use of language and communication is crucial and significantly inevitable include negotiation, dialogue, mediation, adjudication, arbitration as well as the use of the mass media. It is the opinion of this author that the roles and functions of language and communication should be given more attention, analysed and utilized in order to find out the root causes, management, effects and resolutions of conflicts in the society.