A lawyer and mediator, Mrs Angela Uzoma Nzekwe-Usoh, has advised business owners and individuals to embrace early communication and mediation in resolving disputes, warning that prolonged conflicts can become more expensive than the original issue.
Speaking on Trade FM, Nzekwe-Usoh said many disputes escalate because parties allow disagreements to fester, refuse to communicate or allow third parties to influence their decisions. She explained that mediation provides a confidential and collaborative platform where parties can compromise and reach mutually acceptable solutions without immediately resorting to litigation.
According to her, mediation can save parties considerable time and money, while also preserving business and personal relationships. She noted that disputes involving debts, loans, business transactions, friends and family can often be resolved through mediation, with parties agreeing on flexible payment arrangements, including instalments, goods or services where appropriate.
Nzekwe-Usoh also cautioned Nigerians against rushing into property transactions without proper verification. She advised prospective buyers to physically inspect properties, conduct searches at the appropriate land registry, establish ownership and check for encumbrances such as litigation or mortgages before making payments.
She further stressed the importance of engaging lawyers in property transactions and ensuring agreements are properly documented. According to her, buyers should establish whether a property belongs to an individual, family or community and confirm that the people offering it for sale have the legal authority to do so.
The mediator also urged business owners to put agreements in writing, stating the names of parties, the nature of the transaction, amounts involved, individual contributions and what should happen if the agreement fails. She said proper documentation can protect parties from disputes that may arise from verbal agreements, particularly following the death of one of the parties.
Nzekwe-Usoh maintained that lawyers should not be viewed solely as professionals who take people to court, stressing that legal advice can help prevent costly mistakes. She added that while mediation cannot resolve every dispute, parties who are willing to compromise can often reach an amicable settlement.
She noted that where mediation fails because one or both parties remain unwilling to compromise, the matter may eventually proceed to court.
Nzekwe-Usoh’s key message to Nigerians was the importance of communication, urging people to “talk, talk, talk” before conflicts escalate. She encouraged parties to reach out early, seek professional mediation where necessary and document their agreements to protect their businesses, property and relationships.
