From::Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
Renowned Benue State Social Cultural group under the auspices of Tyoshin Development Association (TDA) has lamented the sustained killings of farmers in Nigeria by suspected herdsmen, tasking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to back the State Anti-Grazing Laws with Federal might.
Speaking yesterday in a nationwide news commentary on Radio Nigeria titled “ Ending Farmers Herders Crisis to boost food security” and monitored by this medium, the President, Tyoshin Development Association Chief Tiza Tarnongo said the anti-urban grazing law of Benue State enacted to mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders have shown promising results but requires full support from the Federal Government to be truly effective.
It is, therefore, imperative for all stakeholders, including Government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens, to collaborate effectively in finding lasting solutions to end the circle of violence and restore peace and security in the affected areas.
While commending Governor Hyacinth Alia’s doggedness in the resettlement of Displaced persons, Tarnongo revealed that the establishment of community-based conflict resolution Committees that foster dialogue, reconciliation, and social cohesion, raising awareness about the benefits of peaceful coexistence and educating communities on conflict resolution techniques can foster a culture of peace.
“Addressing environmental factors such as drought and desertification is also crucial. Expanding livelihood opportunities for both farmers and herders can reduce dependency on land and resources thereby reducing competition.”
