Herders’ Perspectives on Violent Conflicts with Farmers in Selected Local Government Areas in Adamawa State, North-East, Nigeria

Violent conflict between herders and farmers is prevalent in many states in Nigeria. From north to south, hitherto peaceful communities have been engulfed in violent confrontations between farmers and herders over land for farming versus land for grazing. The resultant consequence is loss of lives, destruction of properties and internal displacement. This study interrogates the nuances of farmer-herder conflicts from the perspectives of herders. The study’s geographical scope is Demsa, Larmude, Numan and Mubi north local government areas in Adamawa State. Primary data for the study was sourced from 20 key informant interviews and 8 focus group discussions with herders, herder groups and associations. Secondary data was retrieved from textbooks, academic journals/articles and other relevant peer-reviewed publications. Findings indicate that cattle theft and rustling, blockage of cattle routes by farmers, drug abuse, failure by the government to prosecute persons that attack herders, marginalization of herders, and poisoning of grasslands by farmers are causes of the conflict. Loss of lives and cattle, bitterness, hatred, anger and animosity against herders, displacement/forced migration and an increase in the number of widows due to the killing of their husbands are impacts of the conflict on herders. Empowerment of traditional rulers to manage the conflict, imposition of fines on owners of trespassing cattle, unblocking of cattle routes and provision of water points for herds were identified as actions that can reduce the conflict. The study argues that the reactionary approach of government to management of the conflict is ineffective. The study recommends the need for the government to engage farmers and herders independently to allow them to express their grievances; thereafter, an appropriate conflict management strategy can be designed and implemented.