Pattern and Impact of Conflicts between Farmers and Herders in Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the pattern and impact of conflicts between farmers and herders in Riyom local government area of Plateau State from 2011 to 2016.  The study also assessed the effectiveness of measures employed for managing the conflicts. The study employed a cross sectional survey method and a multi-stage purposive sampling method. The sample comprised four hundred (400) respondents. Questionnaire and interview were administered in collecting data. Findings revealed that herders-farmers conflict is prevalent in Riyom Local government Area and has impacted negatively on the socio-economic livelihood of the people. It argued that farmers-herder's conflicts in Riyom are caused by a combination of factors such as crops damage by cattle, land encroachment, encroachment of grazing reserves, lack of access to water point and pollution of water points, killing of stray cattle, cattle rustling, indiscriminate bush burning and disregard to rules and regulations.  It recommended among many the enactment of a law to ban open grazing and a law to establish enclosed grazing (ranches), arrest and prosecution of offenders, improved training for the police and other law enforcement agencies, the involvement of traditional rulers who are the custodian of culture in conflict resolution, enhanced public information and education on the need for citizens to respect and obey the law and engage in dialogue to promote peaceful and harmonious co-existence.