MITIGATING CONFLICTS ESCALATION AND PROMOTING PEACE RESOLUTION IN YORRO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA: ROLES OF CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

Abstract

There is no doubt that social interaction is threatened by unavoidable conflicts. While numerous factors endanger conflict, its management and mitigation has defied formal process in many times. In fact, in Yorro LGA of Taraba State, formal set of rules, legislations, police system, and judiciary are prominent strategies employed to mitigate conflicts and ensure peaceful coexistence of inhabitants without prioritizing activities of religious bodies such as Christian Association of Nigeria, Taraba State Chapter. However, the formal conflict mitigation process seems not to be yielding expected results as tension and mistrust still persist among the inhabitants, whereas there is paucity of evidence on the roles of religious bodies, especially the Christian Association of Nigeria, Taraba State Chapter in mitigating conflicts in the area. This paper maintained that conflict is neither positive nor negative as it is connected to diverse characteristics of our thoughts, beliefs, perceptions, attitudes at social systems and structure, whereas its mitigation determines the effects. In line with other scholars, the paper argued that CAN has engaged in initiatives aimed at preventing crises and building peace, including interfaith dialogues, community mediation, and partnerships with various organizations, especially in conflict-prone areas like Plateau, Jos, Kaduna, and Sokoto. In order to ensure effective conflict mitigation and promote peace resolution, the paper canvassed for involvement of Taraba State CAN chapter to prioritize activities like interfaith and collaboration, conflict prevention and peacebuilding, advocacy for peace, relief and solidarity, capacity building, economic development integration, and dialogue for peace among others. The paper recommended engagement through dialogue, enlightenment on tolerance and engagement with government and other relevant organizations to promote peace resolution in Taraba State. It was concluded that conflict mitigation and peace resolution sustainability lies in the hands of Taraba State CAN chapter. This is because any kinds of conflicts can be better approached through formidable religious body like CAN.