IDEAL INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL

Proverbs are utterances with deep meanings which are of great value to cultures. Igbo people use proverbs in different contexts for various purposes such as crisis management and conflict resolution. They add to the style of discourse through their figurative, aesthetic, symbolic and cultural imports. It encourages deep reflection as the words of proverb are not direct but strategic. Proverbs are very notable in Igbo culture for its impacts on the community and people especially in crisis situations. This is why there is this common saying amongst the Igbo‘tàà okw? ez? tupu ì kwuo’ meaning that we should chew very well our words before voicing them out so as to avoid conflict. They are insightful traditional assertions that express perceived truth based on diplomacy/experience. Proverbs are based on symbolic or metaphorical language that calls for deep thinking. Conflict management and resolution are very essential in determining how far our harmonious living can go in maintaining peaceful coexistence amongst us. Based on this, this study will examine how some Igbo proverbs are used in conflict management and resolution using the Speech Act Theory of Searle (1969). The framework applies assertives, directives, commissives, expressives and declaratives to inspire, persuade, console, promise, and encourage the hearer by the speaker in certain situations and issues. However, it brings about effects upon the beliefs, attitudes or behaviours of the addressee. Qualitative research design will be used to analyse data obtained from primary sources. It was discovered that Igbo proverbs exhibits these prelocutionary acts in resolving different forms of conflicts existing in our society amongst the people.

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