Presidency commences consultations on farmers/herders conflicts

By Lawrence Olaoye

The Presidency has begun national consultations with all relevant groups with the aim to finding lasting solutions to the lingering farmers/herders clashes in some parts of the country.
This followed the visit made by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, last week in the wake of the communal clashes in Adamawa state.
Osinbajo yesterday in the first series of the consultation held at the Presidential Villa had in attendance the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Lamido of Adamawa, Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, elderstatesman Mallam Ahmed Joda and other leaders of the Fulani communities. Subsequent meetings would focus on other interest groups.
According to a statement made available to newsmen yesterday by his Spokesman, Laolu Akande, the meeting, previous reports on the conflict were presented by the delegation and causes of the conflict were analysed.
He stated “The meeting unequivocally condemned the acts of violence that has occured, especially the killing of children and women and highlighted the need for Law Enforcement and other Government Agencies to dutifully and objectively perform their Constitutional roles.”
The Vice President assured the delegation of the Federal Government’s resolve and commitment to the entrenchment of lasting peace in all communities across the country and the resolution of all legitimate grievances.
Already, following the Vice President’s visit to Adamawa State last week, several food items and relief materials have been distributed to all the affected communities in the State including Shafaron, Kodomti, Tullum, Mzoruwe and Mararraban Bare in Numan Local Government Area. Others communities that have received relief materials are Dong, Lawaru and Kukumso in Demsa Local Government Area of the State.
In the next series of meetings, the Vice President will meet with the Batta, Bachama and other groups from Adamawa State; while meetings with stakeholders from other conflict-affected States would follow.