CONSEQUENCES OF COMMUNAL CONFLICT ON SOCIAL ACTIVITIES IN EMOHUA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE

Abstract

This study examined the consequences of communal conflict on social activities in Emohua Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive-survey research design, the study used both primary and secondary data. A total of 350 copies of the questionnaire (out of 400) were retrieved and found useful, representing a response rate of 87.5%. The study focused on communities in Emohua LGA -Rundele, Ibaa, Obelle, and Oduoha -and administered structured questionnaires alongside in-depth interviews to capture perceptions of the conflict situation. The findings revealed that communal conflicts have significant negative effects on social activities in Emohua LGA, with respondents indicating a high level of disruption in daily life, displacement and migration, breakdown of social cohesion, and developmental setbacks. The study also found that effective solutions require coordinated interventions such as dialogue and mediation, conflict resolution training, community development, good governance, and cultural awareness and sensitivity. The study concludes that achieving sustainable peace in Emohua LGA depends on addressing the root causes of communal conflict and strengthening mechanisms for social stability.