AN EXAMINATION OF THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF FARMERS AND HERDERS CONFLICT IN SOUTHERN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Janet J.M , P. S. Kundi, A. T. Ogah and M. Alkali
Volume 10 Issue 1
Abstract
This study investigates the causes and consequences of farmers-herders conflict in Southern Nasarawa State, Nigeria, where escalating competition over land and water resources has intensified tensions, often resulting in violent confrontations. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, collecting primary data through surveys and interviews with 150 participants, including farmers, herders, and community leaders, alongside secondary data from existing literature. The aim was to identify the primary drivers of conflict and assess their socio-economic and environmental impacts on the region, contributing to a deeper understanding of this complex issue. The findings reveal that crop destruction by cattle emerges as the most significant cause of conflict, with a mean score of (4.12), highlighting the substantial economic losses farmers face due to damage to crops such as maize, yam, rice, and millet. This issue is compounded by the straying of cattle into farmlands (mean score 3.71) and overgrazing (mean score 3.69), which further exacerbate tensions between the two groups. Additional factors contributing to the conflict include cattle theft, bush burning, and water contamination, albeit with comparatively lower severity. These results underscore the urgent need for interventions aimed at managing cattle movements and protecting agricultural lands. The socio-economic consequences of the conflict are significant, with economic impacts identified as the most pronounced, accounting for (36.67%) of the effects. These conflicts disrupt agricultural productivity, reduce livelihoods, and increase poverty levels, threatening food security and destabilizing local economies dependent on farming and livestock. Social disruption follows closely at (23.33%), reflecting how conflict erodes community cohesion, leads to displacements, and perpetuates cycles of violence due to historical grievances and ethnic tensions. Furthermore, environmental degradation (18%) threatens biodiversity and exacerbates vulnerabilities to climate change impacts, while health and well-being (10%) are negatively affected, resulting in physical health risks and psychological stress in conflict-affected areas. To address the challenges posed by the farmers-herders conflict, the study recommends implementing designated grazing areas, promoting sustainable grazing practices such as rotational grazing, and enhancing conflict resolution mechanisms. Additionally, improving fencing to protect crops and strengthening security measures to reduce cattle theft are critical strategies for mitigating the conflict. These interventions, supported by government policies and community engagement, could foster better communication and cooperation between farmers and herders, ultimately promoting sustainable coexistence. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to address the root causes of the conflict and enhasnce sustainable development in the region. Keywords: Conflict, Farmers, Herders, Sustainable, Straying of Cattle, Water Contamination
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