Struggle for survival exacerbates conflict between farmers and ranchers – DG IPCR

Struggle for survival exacerbates conflict between farmers and ranchers – DG IPCR

The Director General of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu on Friday said that the ‘struggle for survival’, and worsened climate change is heightening the crisis of farmer-herder clashes in the country. He said the conflicts between farmers and herders in the country are deeply rooted in a combination of historical, environmental, economic and socio-political factors. Ochogwu, who spoke in Abuja during the national conference on farmer and herders relations in Nigeria, said the issue of climate change has continued to stand as a formidable and escalating challenge in the resolution of the crisis.

The farmer-herder crisis, more pronounced in the North-Central, has lingered for over two decades, claiming over 60,000 lives since 2001.In February 2024, President Bola Tinubu said the government would commence the Pulaku Initiative, a large-scale resettlement programme to address the root causes of incessant clashes between farmers and herders in various flashpoints nationwide.

Ochogwu also called the “Fulani code of conduct,” is an integral cultural and ethical value system specific to the Fulani. “Conflicts between farmers and ranchers are rooted in a combination of historical, environmental, economic and socio-political factors, among which the erratic weather patterns, persistent droughts and unseasonal floods we are experiencing are increasingly challenging.

” In addition to being an inconvenience, they also cause significant disruptions to agricultural and ranching systems. “These environmental changes are increasing competition for limited resources such as land, water and pasture, and are fueling tensions between communities.” He added, “Economic insecurity is further exacerbating this issue.

The rural areas where conflicts are most prevalent are often plagued by poverty and lack of infrastructure.” “The struggle for survival in these environments can lead to increased competition for resources and conflict. The economic pressures faced by farmers and ranchers can drive them to desperate measures, further deepening the cycle of violence,” Ochogwu said.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Director, Neem Foundation, Dr. Fatima Akilu stressed the need to explore and implement innovative conflict resolution mechanisms in the resolution of farmer-herder clashes. He said, “Establishing effective early warning systems, promoting equitable resource sharing, and integrating alternative dispute resolution methods are key to preventing and mitigating conflicts. “Moreover, addressing the mental health impacts of conflict and ensuring that support systems are in place for affected individuals is critical for long-term healing and reconciliation.”