GASPRO International Journal of Eminent Scholars

                                                                                    ABSTRACT

This research work tries to consider the effects of communal conflict and socio-economic development Ibeno and Esit Udua in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The study adopted 3 objectives which help guide the work as regards to Examine the causes of communal conflict between Ibeno and Esit Udua in Eket local government Areas of Akwa Ibom State Examine, the social effects of communal conflict between Ibeno and Esit Udua in Eket local government Areas of Akwa Ibom State on socio development, Examine the economic effects of communal conflict on socio development between Ibeno and Esit Udua in Eket local government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. With major research questions and hypotheses. The theoretical framework adopted in this research work is Relative Deprivation to explain the issues of communal conflict. Using descriptive analysis and survey research design of which questionnaires were administered with a sample size of about 180 respondents. It was discovered that the causes of the conflicts are land boundary, traditional factors, political factors it was also discovered that the social effects of the conflict are Sexual harassment of women, acquiring of weapons/arms, Reduction in quality of social relationship, Restriction of movement and communication which has affected socio-economic activities. And recommendations were made base on Conflict Resolution and Management, The need for effective dialogue by the various stakeholders. The equal distribution of farmlands and other resources. The rightful owners should be allowed to occupy their land. Political parties should stop interfering in the chieftaincy conflict. The need for education and understanding and finally the state government in collaboration with the conflicting local government should put up security agencies to salvage the situation.

KEYWORDS: Communal Conflict, Socio-Economic and Development