ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF CONFLICT ON FOOD SECURITY IN COMMUNITIES OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Idoko Tom El-Audu
Volume 5 Issue 2
Abstract
It is a truism that in recent years, Nigeria has witnessed several violent conflicts with its overriding effects on human lives. The country has recorded perennial conflicts in virtually all regions; ranging from ethno-religious, inter-communal, insurgency and farmers-herders confrontations. These ugly trends have resulted in food shortage and insecurity as farmers are often driven from their homes and farming communities to the more secured urban areas, hindering them from engaging in agricultural activities. This study therefore, assessed the effects of communal conflict on food security in Bonta and Ukpute communities of Benue State. The study adopted the secondary source of data, while the data analysis was carried out using Content Analysis to systematically analyze text, identify patterns and meanings. Findings from the study confirmed that communal conflict has a significant impact on food security of the two agricultural occupational communities of Benue state. Based on this finding, the study recommended improved security in conflicting communities. It also recommends the establishment of conflict mediation, resolution, reconciliation and peace building mechanisms. Keywords: Conflict, Food Security, Communities
Download Paper