FACTORS AND EFFECTS OF INTER-COMMUNAL CONFLICTS ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

AN CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Much like in many climes, land is considered the most significant and valuable community asset that is transferred from one generation to another in Cross River State. This study examines the recurring incidence of inter-communal conflicts and its devastation on economic development in Cross River State. The economic lands, political factors and social factors are the major causes of inter-communal conflicts in the Cross River State. The study adopted the resource competition theory and the dependency theory. The paper utilized both primary and secondary methods of data collection. Data for analytical purpose are extracted through interviews, direct observation for the primary method and textbooks, journal papers, internet materials, and Nigeria Conflict bulletin are obtained for the secondary method. The study recommend that the government need to meet with the conflicting communities and seek their opinions and make suggestion on how to end the conflict. Also government needs to integrate, reconstruct and rehabilitate the warring communities with schools, markets, health care centres etc. In doing these, it will go a long way in bringing peace and sustainable economic development among the warring communities.