Dr Okoro Advocates for Use of Indigenous Systems to Resolve Conflict

Dr. Azubike Okoro, the Chairman of Publicity and Publication of the All Aro National Conference, has advocated for using indigenous systems to resolve conflicts in the Arochukwu Kingdom.

Speaking at the 6th edition of the All Aro National Conference held at the Civic Centre in Oror Arochukwu on July 25, 2025, he reminded attendees of their cultural roots, which historically helped their ancestors live in harmony. He emphasised that culture is what makes people unique.

In his lecture titled “Continuity and Change in Cultural Practices as a Model for Managing Conflict in Arochukwu Kingdom: Lessons from History,” Dr. Okoro asserted that no conflict is beyond resolution by the community. He recommended a hybrid model that combines traditional and modern conflict resolution methods, appealing for its implementation to address conflicts arising within the community.

Dr. Okoro outlined five conflict resolution committees within the kingdom. The first is the Okpankpo Aro, which serves as the apex traditional judicial governance system. The second is the Ekpe Society, which enforces norms through sacred rites. The third is the Nzuko Aro, which mobilises community consensus, including input from diaspora unions. The fourth is the Umu Otusi/Oracles, which encompasses ancestral, spiritual, and religious dimensions. Lastly, the Elders, Age Graders, and religious groups provide broad representation by bridging generational perspectives.

He also proposed five levels of conflict resolution. The first is the Compound/Family Level, where conflicts are handled by immediate family, elders, and the Eze-Ogo in Council. The second level is the Otusi Level, where conflicts escalated to the Otusi head are managed among the nine Otusi groups.

At the third level, the Clan Level issues can be addressed in Amuze/Ime Aro Clan assemblies before proceeding to the Kingdom-Wide Level, which is overseen by the Okpankpo (Eze Aro in Council). The last level is the State/Government Level, involving bodies such as local government areas, the police, and customary or civil courts.

Dr. Okoro emphasised that this approach reflects traditional Igbo conflict resolution practices. If each step is followed, conflicts can be effectively resolved.

He cautioned that for these institutions to remain relevant amid modern challenges, they must be reimagined and integrated into contemporary society. He highlighted that the cultural practices of the Arochukwu Kingdom predate ancient times and that utilising each mechanism to foster peace and harmony will not only strengthen the traditional system but also promote development within the kingdom.

He urged the community to uphold ancestral and traditional practices, embrace democratic inclusivity, ensure legal rigor through mediation and arbitration supported by civic enforcement, and facilitate social bonding through festivals and reconciliation rites. He stressed the importance of clear escalation pathways with well-defined conflict tiers to make Arochukwu Kingdom a model for rooted traditions and progress.