Community Relations Strategies and Conflict Resolution: An Investigation of Indorma Petrochemical Company in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State
Keywords:
Community, Community Relations, Strategies, Conflict, ResolutionAbstract
This study investigates community relations strategies use by Indorama Petrochemical Company in Eleme in managing conflict between the host communities. The study was designed to explore how participatory approach to dispute resolution will support the process of conflict management in the oil producing host communities in Rivers State. The study employed survey design. The target population of the study is 23,223 drawn from the four communities which serve as host communities to the company. The purposive sampling technique was used and a sample size of 310 was adopted for the study using Taro Yamane formula. Responses and data were collected using questionnaire. Mean score was used for the data analysis. Findings of the research reviewed that the community relations strategies employed by Indorama Petrochemical Company has been productive and efficient to a certain level in managing conflict between the company and host communities. The study further revealed that there is an understanding and good relationship between the company and host communities. It was recommended that companies should endeavour to promote good communication link with their host communities in order to foster beneficial relationship for both parties in Rivers State.
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