The Delta State Assembly has expressed deep concern over the alleged daily harassments, maiming, and killings of farmers in Abraka by suspected herdsmen.
This alarm was raised following a motion of urgent public importance by the Deputy Speaker, Arthur Akpowhowho, representing the Ethiope East Constituency.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has been urged to intervene promptly.
The Assembly wants him to collaborate with the State Police Command and other security agencies to address this pressing issue.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted the severe consequences of these attacks. He pointed out that residents of Abraka now fear visiting their farms due to the violent activities of the herders.
This situation is not only a threat to peace but also has economic implications. The reduced farm activities have led to a shortage of farm produce. This shortage is contributing to the rising prices of agricultural products in the market.
The Deputy Speaker also warned of potential reprisals from the area’s youth if the situation continues unchecked.
Editorial:
The ongoing conflict between farmers and herders in Nigeria, particularly in Delta State, is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. The Delta State Assembly’s recent outcry over the alleged attacks on farmers in Abraka by suspected herdsmen underscores the gravity of the situation.
While the economic implications are evident in the rising prices of agricultural products, the human cost is even more devastating. Lives are lost, livelihoods are destroyed, and communities live in perpetual fear.
It’s essential to understand that this isn’t just a Delta State problem; it’s a national issue. The frequent clashes between farmers and herders have been a recurring theme in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The root causes, ranging from land disputes to environmental factors like desertification pushing herders southwards, need to be addressed holistically.
The state and federal governments must collaborate to find a lasting solution. This could involve creating designated grazing routes, investing in modern animal husbandry practices, or even mediating land use agreements between farmers and herders.
The time for action is now, lest this issue escalates into a more significant crisis.
Did You Know?
- The conflict between farmers and herders in Nigeria has historical roots, with both groups competing for limited resources.
- Desertification in the northern parts of Nigeria has been a significant factor pushing herders towards the south.
- Modern animal husbandry practices, like ranching, can reduce the need for nomadic herding.
- The economic implications of the farmer-herder conflict extend beyond rising food prices; they also impact Nigeria’s food security.
- Community-based conflict resolution mechanisms have been successful in some parts of Nigeria in addressing farmer-herder clashes.
