Administrative relevance of Yakurr tradition in peacebuilding: Examining the matrilineal system in core Yakurr Communities. Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the administrative significance of Yakurr traditional institutions, particularly the role of matrilineal families in peacebuilding among the core Yakurr communities of Cross River State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the recurring incidents of misunderstandings, communal conflicts, and violent skirmishes that have negatively affected social cohesion and development within these communities. Given that matrilineal families are found across all core Yakurr settlements, their contribution to conflict resolution and peacebuilding remains indispensable. While government has the formal responsibility of managing conflicts and restoring peace, matrilineal institutions have historically served as effective indigenous mechanisms for mediation, reconciliation, and social integration. The study adopted a qualitative research design and relied on secondary sources of data obtained from books, journal articles, magazines, historical records, and other relevant scholarly materials. The Peacebuilding Theory provided the theoretical framework for the analysis. Findings revealed that matrilineal families have played significant roles in mitigating communal disputes and fostering peaceful coexistence among the Yakurr people. Their extensive kinship networks transcend community boundaries, thereby facilitating dialogue and reconciliation during periods of conflict. The study recommends the expansion of matrilineal ties beyond the core Yakurr communities to neighboring non-Yakurr linguistic groups as a strategy for strengthening intergroup relations, promoting sustainable peace, and enhancing regional development. Given the history of communal conflicts within Yakurr land, the reinforcement of matrilineal connections across all communities in Yakurr Local Government Area remains essential for effective peacebuilding and social stability.