Abstract:
The media can be used as an instrument for managing and resolving crisis in a volatile contemporary human setting. This study has tried to establish the inherent nature of conflict and crisis in human society as well as the significant role of media in stabilizing peace and development; enhancing human interaction and also looked at the nature of violence to the well-being of humanity. Vital roles of the media and the various conflict management apparatus and other measures put in place to avert or control violent conflict in Kaduna State have been highlighted. The study is limited to only Kaduna South Local Government Area of the state with population figure of Four Hundred and Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Ninety (402, 390) according to the National Population Census (NPC) in 2006.The sample size is Three Hundred and Ninety-Six (396). The study examines the “Assessment of the Role of Media in Conflict Management and Resolution between 2013-2016”. Agenda-setting is adopted as theoretical framework of the study. Research survey design was used; the instruments for data collection were questionnaire and in-depth interview guide. The sampling methods considered for this study are purposive (non-probability) sample in the selection of study population and accidental or convenience sampling in the selection of respondents because of the sensitivity of the problem under study. The study focuses on objectives that centered on investigating the roles of media in managing and resolving the conflict in Southern Kaduna. The study provides necessary information on the causes and effects of conflicts to the society, and how the media assisted in proper management of conflict. Some causes of conflicts are looked into, and solutions as well as recommendations on the possible ways of controlling effects of such conflicts were proffered. The study concludes that there is need to enhance the performance of media in the process of conflict management and reconciliation so as to engender a peaceful common future for all citizens in the study area.
