KACRAN wants traditional rulers to addressing herders-farmers conflicts

By Christiana Ekpa

The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged Traditional Rulers across the country to take proactive measures in addressing the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers, stressing that the association is committed to resolving these disputes.

Hon. Khalil Mohd Bello   National President   Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) who disclosed this in statement made available to news said   the association recognize the crucial role that the Traditional Rulers can play in fostering peace and dialogue.

He said “historically, before the European colonization of Africa, our Traditional Rulers had complete authority over land management. African pastoralists, known for their law-abiding nature, would seek permission from Emirs and Chiefs before moving into new areas for grazing. Similarly, farmers would approach Traditional Rulers to request land for cultivation, ensuring mutual respect and cooperation.

“Although contemporary laws designate state governments as the primary landowners, the traditional land tenure system still recognizes Traditional Rulers as custodians of land within their domains

“KACRAN acknowledges that our Emirs and Chiefs continue to command respect and influence, playing vital roles in mediating conflicts between herders and farmers. A notable example is His Royal Highness the Emir of Fika, Alhaji Muhammad Ibn Abali Ibn Idrisa, who actively engages with KACRAN and utilizes his authority to maintain peace during farming seasons. His efforts include monitoring grazing reserves and enforcing compliance to prevent encroachment.

“We recall an incident where the then Executive Chairman of Fika Local Government disregarded the Emir’s directives regarding the Gadana grazing reserve. The Emir’s decisive action led to the removal of encroaching maize crops, thereby preventing potential conflicts.

“Another commendable example is His Royal Highness the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Suleiman, who is currently assisting the Yobe State Government in reclaiming the Jakusko Nasari grazing reserve from encroachment by farmers, a process that has benefited from his strong intervention.

“Given the effectiveness of our esteemed Traditional Rulers in resolving herders-farmers conflicts, we passionately appeal to all Emirs and Chiefs to engage actively in finding lasting solutions to these disputes. Their respected status as community leaders positions them uniquely to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation.

He equally call the state governments to empower Traditional Rulers by providing them with administrative authority, financial resources, and logistical support to effectively mediate these conflicts within their domains, adding that both farmers and herders recognize the capacity of Traditional Leaders to foster peace, making their involvement essential in this matter.