EXAMINING THE EFFECT OF ETHNIC CONFLICT ON ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY OF SHONGOM AND PERO-CHONGE 2021

Abstract

This study investigates ethnic conflict and the challenges of economic and political development in Shongom and Pero-Chonge 2021. Ethnic conflict arose out of the context of fear and suspicion of one ethnic group to another over the distribution of social, economic and political goods and services. The study examines the causes of ethnic conflict on the economic and political development of Shongom LGA. And proffer measures to curb conflict in the study area. A quantitative method was adopted where data was collected using questionnaire while text books, journal articles, magazines, internet materials constituted some secondary sources of data collected. Karl Max conflict theory was used in ascertaining conflict between two opposing individual and groups within a society The study discovered the cost of conflict in the study area in terms of human lives and property, the destructions of infrastructure; while poverty rooted in political corruption was discover as one of the root causes of conflict as well as weak state institutions with a devastating denial of basic need impacted on economic and political development of the area. The study recommended that all-inclusive management scheme of settlers and natives be adhered to, as well as religious, community-based organisation be part of the peace building and management process in the area concern.