Traditional Institution and Inter-ethnic Relations: A Study of Lafia Emirate Council Nasarawa State, Nigeria 1999-2019

Abstract

This paper seeks to empirically assess the impact of Lafia Emirate Council on inter-ethnic relations from 1999 to 2019 using descriptive and correlation matrix. Inter-ethnic relations in an environment with high degree of diversity often become tense since the advent of the Nigerian fourth republic. Lafia Emirate is a miniature Nigeria, consisting of diverse ethnic and religious groups. However, the crises and contestations that have characterized the polity of the country especially its upsurge since the return to democracy in May 29, 1999 was relatively tamed in the Emirate due to the impact of the Emirate Council in moderating inter-ethnic relations in the area. The paper attempted an empirical x-ray into the impact of the Lafia Emirate Council on inter-ethnic relations in the Emirate. After reviewing relevant literature and firsthand information gathered through questionnaires, primary and secondary data were analyzed guided by the social capital theory. The findings have revealed positive impact of the Lafia Emirate Council on inter-ethnic relations on virtually almost all the key variables tested. It’s suggested the need for constitutional roles for Emirate Councils to achieve more rewarding successes. The mediation and reconciliation role of traditional rulers should be strengthened and institutionalized to serve as an alternative conflict resolution mechanism in view of its efficacy and mending of relationship and fences.