Issues and Challenges of Deploying Biblical Principles in Conflict Resolution in Nigeria

Abstract

Conflict is as old as humanity, right from the time of creation when Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden; and which led to their expulsion from the Garden (Gen. 3:1-23). Conflict manifests itself in human lives, homes, organizations, communities and nations of the world. The current level of injustice, poverty-ridden policies in the Nigerian society is becoming overwhelming and unbearable as individuals, families, organizations and even churches are plagued with all kinds of conflicts. Several scholars such as Ezerim (2010), Nwankwo (2010), Dzurgba (2010) and among others have written and proffered various solutions to conflict resolution. For example, Ezerim sees democracy as a conflict management strategy. According to him, democracy engenders peace and helps in the management of conflicts in human societies, and thus is adequate for Nigeria and other African states (2010:42). While the above suggestion is good for an idea situation, democracy has not really helped the masses in Nigeria. In spite of the twenty-five years of unbroken democracy in the nation, life is still difficult for the masses as a result of various conflicts at every level of government- Federal, States and Local Governments