Modernization and Traditional Methods of Social Control in Obudu L.G.A. Of Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

It is known that before the advent of colonialism, Africa had a system of justice and adjudication hence, making the people conform to the ethos of the community, but the coming of colonialism has changed the people’s cognitive mapping of what constitute social order and control through the introduction of new methods leading to the abandonment of the traditional that was instant, efficient and effective. This study examines the perception of the people towards traditional methods of social control in the face of modernization. The study utilized structured questionnaire to examine the people’s acceptance or appreciation of traditional methods of social control in the modern world. The study found among other things that most communities have abandoned their traditional methods of social control. The Christian Religion has changed the people’s perception and attitudes towards traditional methods of social control. That the modern methods of social control have not succeeded in adequately reducing crime and building confidence on peace making and conflict management. There is an urgent need to synchronize the modern and traditional methods of social control to create a synergy for better security network. This will enable society to protect its people by creating in them confidence in the social control mechanism.