From Dialogue to Action: The Role of Communication in a Peacebuilding Initiative in the Niger Delta, Nigeria

• In Event: ICTs and Marginalized Populations

Abstract

Animosity between university students and their host communities is emerging as a source of conflict in Nigeria. This study documents three communicative strategies and two outcomes of a co-constructed engaged scholarship initiative to prevent reprisal from university students following the killing of four undergraduates over their alleged role in a theft in Rivers State, Nigeria. The Local Leadership Model (LLM) is a participatory communication approach that engages local citizens by fostering space for inclusive dialogue among disputing factions with the goal of mutually resolving potential conflict. Through focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and an actor group meeting, a local peace committee emerged, and is leading violence prevention efforts in the community. This engaged research endeavor underscores the communicative constitution of peacebuilding and documents the role everyday citizens can have in affecting social change.

Authors

• Stacey L. Connaughton, Purdue U

• Agaptus Anaele, Ohio

• Jasmine Linabary, Purdue University

• Kai Kuang, Purdue U

• Arunima Krishna, Purdue University

• Liliya Yakova, Purdue University