Author(s) :

Magajiya Tanko, PhD, Abubakar Abdullahi Muhammad .

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

The study examines herder - framers conflict: implication for development in Nigeria, a study of Benue state. The objectives of the study is to find out the causes of farmer’s pastoralist conflicts and food security in Benue state and find out the socio- economic effect of the conflict on the farmers in the state. The research review literature on security, types of security and food security in Nigeria, the democratic peace theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. The data used in this study was collected from both primary and secondary sources, the primary method of data collection included the use of a research instrument which is the questionnaire. Secondary sources of data collection on the other hand, included textbooks, journal, government documents and internet materials. The study adopted the use of simple percentage, tables and descriptive content approach for data analysis. The study revealed that clashes between farmers and herdsmen have left in its trail heavy losses of lives and property. These losses of lives have adversely affected farming activities and other related businesses. This has resulted in a drastic reduction in farm outputs, a development that has heightened the fear of hunger. Already most farmers in the affected states have abandoned farms for fear of being attacked by the herdsmen. The opinion of many citizens of Benue State is that Hausa-Fulani Muslim herdsmen are seeking to invade and occupy territories in the state, with the aim of spreading Islam, the ultimate goal being to undermine Christianity and the homeland rights of indigenous Christians. This opinion would seem to be confirmed by the increasing numbers of Hausa-Fulani Muslim herdsmen entering the state, as well as by the sharp increase in the number of attacks against indigenous Christian communities. Finally, the study made useful recommendations, both herdsmen and farmers should stop making hate speeches because hate speeches encourage anger and destroys unity. And those making hate speeches should be brought to book.

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