The role of civil society groups in conflict resolution in Nigeria

This paper examines the role of civil society organisations in conflict resolution in Nigeria. It argues that the perception of government of civil society organisations as opposition groups is a major contributory factor to the proliferation of conflict in the Nigerian state. It claims that the integration of civil society groups in governance will not only enhance political stability but also facilitate mass mobilization towards more inclusive and participatory democracy in Nigeria. The paper adopts the qualitative research method, founded on case study approach, to the various roles played by civil society organisations in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta area where conflict is known to be particularly intensive as a result of resource allocation, control and exploitation. The paper observes that civil society groups play complementary roles to the state rather than the reverse. It concludes that the state should embrace civil society groups and provide conducive environment for their operations in order to bridge the gap between the citizens and the state.