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Legal pluralism and indigenous conflict adjudicatory mechanisms: the theory and practice in North-Western Ghana

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Abstract

Plural traditional actors and approaches to conflict adjudication among the ethnic groups of North-Western Ghana are not effectively known and documented within the realm of judicial jurisprudence. Hence, the paper sought to unearth the applicability of the Dagara traditional conflict resolution mechanisms in contemporary times. The Theory of Legal Pluralism was used to establish the theoretical framework as part of legal anthropological archetype in the resolution of conflicts, its outcome implication in contemporary times and policy options for an alternative path that can be more cooperative and complementary in the resolution of conflicts. The qualitative research approach was relied on for data collection and analyses using key informant interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). Purposive sampling was used to recruit 22 participants for in-depth interviews while six FGDs were conducted across the study communities. Qualitative data were thematically analysed. The study results showed that a number of traditional resolution mechanisms existed and were used to successfully resolved conflicts. These included ululation of women, inter-clan jokes and marriages, Norɔkpukpub (“Mouth Washing”), Ritualistic Role of the Earth Priests, and dirges among others. The study concludes that the Dagara conflict resolution mechanisms existed and it is part of legal anthropology as theorized by scholars in the field of legal pluralism and should be recognized as such. The study, as a matter of policy, recommended that constitutional reform is needed to give more recognition and powers to actors of indigenous approaches to conflict resolution. The study further recommends that basic training be given to adjudicate conflicts across the study communities in consonance with basic formal adjudicatory processes.

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Source Author’s construct. November, 2022

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Data generated in support of the study results is referenced on the paper but will be made available when requested for by relevant institution (s).

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Acknowledgements

The author acknowledges all participants in the study, the late Paramount Chief of Nandom Traditional Area, Naa (Dr) Charles Puoure Puobe Chiir VII and my research assistants.

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The research was carried out without any financial support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Studies Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Department of Public Policy and Management, Faculty of Public Policy and Governance, Wa, Upper West Region, Ghana

    Thaddeus Arkum Aasoglenang

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  1. Thaddeus Arkum Aasoglenang
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I carried out the research with two assistants namely; EB and ANB. The entire article was written by me.

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Correspondence to Thaddeus Arkum Aasoglenang.

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Verbal informed consent was part of the data collection instruments. This was read to participants for their approval before their active participation.

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Aasoglenang, T.A. Legal pluralism and indigenous conflict adjudicatory mechanisms: the theory and practice in North-Western Ghana. SN Soc Sci 3, 183 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43545-023-00764-x

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