By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
TENSIONS BETWEEN farmers and herdsmen has continued to pose a serious threat to food security and economic growth in Delta State.
And despite the vast agricultural land and abundant water resources, the state said it has the potential to become a major food producer, yet recurring conflicts undermine progress.
To address this, the Delta State Government has called for a collaborative approach to fostering peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
Chief Jeffrey Azagba, Special Adviser to the Governor on Livestock and Inter-Ethnic Relations, made this appeal during a one-day conference at Government House, Asaba, themed “Promoting Harmonious Relationships Between Farmers and Herdsmen for Sustainable Development in Delta State.”
He stressed that disputes over land, water, and other resources frequently escalate, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of communities. According to him, “Farmers and herdsmen should not be adversaries but partners in the collective pursuit of food security and sustainable development.”
Azagba proposed the establishment of a structured dialogue forum to facilitate regular discussions between both groups. He noted that continuous engagement could prevent misunderstandings and foster mutual respect.
During the conference, Chief Edwin Uzor, Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, condemned the activities of armed herdsmen, calling for stricter enforcement of anti-grazing laws and a transition to ranching practices.
He insisted on the total disarmament of armed herders, the arrest of underage herders, and a comprehensive restructuring of Operation Delta Sweep to tackle criminal elements within herding communities.
Uzor also advocated for the formation of task forces to monitor entry points into the state, profile herders, and identify locations where armed groups may be operating. He emphasised that fostering peace between genuine herdsmen and host communities remains key to long-term stability.
Professor Daniel Nte Ngboaraji, delivering a keynote presentation, highlighted the need to differentiate between lawful herders and those engaged in criminal activities. He stressed that such distinctions would aid security forces in apprehending offenders while protecting law-abiding herders.
Ngboaraji urged herdsmen to avoid actions that could provoke host communities and called on local residents to operate within the legal framework in their dealings with herders. “Identifying and addressing the root causes of these conflicts is crucial to achieving sustainable peace,” he stated.
The conference brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Security Service, Presidents-General of various kingdoms, clans, and communities, as well as members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association.
Discussions centred on practical solutions to end recurring clashes and create a framework for peaceful cohabitation.
