By Christiana Ekpa
As Nigeria enters the crucial planting season, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has issued a heartfelt call for peace and harmonious relations between farmers and herders across the country.
Recognizing the vital role both groups play in ensuring national food security, KACRAN stressed that peaceful coexistence is fundamental to the success of agricultural activities and overall economic prosperity.
In a statement released by the National President, Hon. Khalil Moh’d Bello, KACRAN highlighted the ongoing efforts by federal, state, and local governments to promote a successful farming season and abundant harvests. Aligning with these objectives, the association urged farmers and herders to conduct their activities with mutual respect, cooperation, and understanding.
To reinforce this message, KACRAN recently organized a peace sensitization initiative aimed at educating both farmers and herders on the importance of peaceful coexistence. The association noted that many of the security challenges in northern Nigeria stem from localized conflicts between the two groups.
Addressing these grassroots disputes, KACRAN believes, would significantly reduce insecurity and foster a more stable environment for all.
As part of its peace advocacy, KACRAN appealed to pastoralists to avoid encroaching on farmlands or damaging crops with their livestock.
Simultaneously, the association called on farmers to respect traditional grazing reserves and cattle routes, emphasizing that cooperation is key to preventing conflict.
Hon. Khalil Moh’d Bello also urged both farmers and herders to refrain from taking the law into their own hands when disputes arise. Instead, he advocated for dialogue, negotiation, and the use of legal channels to resolve misunderstandings related to farm destruction, grazing land encroachment, or cattle path blockages.
The association underscored that the future of peaceful coexistence lies in the hands of farmers and herders themselves. Choosing mutual understanding over conflict, KACRAN stated, will save valuable resources and energy that can be better invested in productive activities.
In its statement, KACRAN called on both groups to be law-abiding, friendly, and peace-loving citizens who contribute positively to their communities, states, and Nigeria as a whole. By doing so, they can leave behind a legacy of peace and unity for future generations.
The association also expressed gratitude to government bodies, traditional leaders, security agencies, and all legal institutions working tirelessly to maintain peace and unity in the country. KACRAN acknowledged the critical support from His Excellency, Honourable Mai Mala Buni, Governor of Yobe State, whose compassionate policies have greatly benefited pastoralists in the region.
Additionally, KACRAN recognized the efforts of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for providing essential palliatives and water points to support herders, and commended Dr. Mohamed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), for his dedication in complementing government programs, including the provision of animal feed and other vital assistance.
The association also extended its appreciation to traditional rulers for their fatherly role in maintaining peace and unity within their communities. Finally, KACRAN praised law enforcement agencies for their tireless work in safeguarding peace and national unity.
KACRAN reiterated its urgent appeal for peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, emphasizing that embracing harmony is not only beneficial but essential for Nigeria’s development and prosperity.
