Abstract

The study analysed implications of Ezeship tussle on community development in Imo State, Nigeria. Multistage purposive sampling was adopted in choosing 120 respondents. Structured interview schedule was used to solicit for the information from the respondents. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics which involved the use of percentage, preference ranking, means, standard deviations and hypothesis was tested using the Duncan?s multiple range test (DMRT). The result of the analysis indicates respondents? perceived personal characteristics that influence choice of ezeship. It was found that Ezeship tussle have both negative and positive effects on community development whereas the major coping strategies to reducing effects of ezeship tussle on community development were accommodation, cooperation and compromise. Result further indicates that the sources of Ezeship tussle that affect community development were identified among them were family ancestry, issues of hereditary and rotatary, superiority right syndrome and caste system. Result shows that family reputation ranks first while physical appearance was least considered. Result further shows the mean of the major sources of ezeship tussle were: family ancestry (2.9), injustice (2.8) and creation of new autonomous communities (2.8). Recommendations include a public enlightenment programme on the negative consequences of Ezeship tussle on community development. The results of the study calls for policies aimed at good cooperation and friendly relationship which should enhance community development.

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