AN EXAMINATION OF THE FAILURE OF NATIONAL BOUNDARY COMMISSION IN RESOLVING THE ADADAMA-NDIAGU AMAGU LAND DISPUTE

Abstract

Communal conflicts have been a recurring occurrence in Nigeria and have caused physical, economic, emotional imbalances and destruction of public infrastructure and properties. The National Boundary Commission was established to resolve boundary disputes, but it has reportedly failed to live up to its statutory responsibility and lacks effective conflict resolution strategies. This study examines the Commission's role in addressing the protracted land dispute between the Adadama and Ndiagu Amagu communities in Ebonyi State, which has continued for over 50 years, putting many lives and properties at risk. Using the Human Needs Theory, the study explores the socio-economic and cultural needs responsible for the conflict and offers recommendations to address these needs. The study recommends that the Commission, in partnership with the Office of the Surveyor-General, reviews all documents and proposes a common boundary between the two states to resolve the conflict. The study highlights the importance of problem-solving techniques and an integrated conflict management model, which include community stakeholders, in addressing conflicts and fostering lasting peace