6th January, 2022
By Ahmed Abba
Some community leaders in Jakusko Local Government Area of Yobe have advocated for conflict resolution committees at the grassroots to curb incessant farmers-herders conflict in the state.
A cross-section of the traditional rulers who made the call at a peace advocacy on Thursday in Jakusko said the measure would complement the efforts of law enforcement agencies in conflict resolution and the peacebuilding process.
The peace advocacy and sensitisation was organised by the Yobe council of the Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ).
Malam Abubakar Suleiman, District Head of Zabudum Ward, said it was imperative to empower community leaders to entertain and resolve disputes between farmers and herders amicably.
Suleiman said the measure would reduce the involvement of law enforcement agents unless when absolutely necessary, as well as, enhance the peacebuilding process.
He urged the government at all levels to revive lost grazing routes and safeguard the existing ones across the country.
Yerima Kyari, District Head of Gwio, admonished farmers to evacuate their produce at harvest to guard against the destruction of farmlands and allow herders to graze their cattle freely.
In his contribution, Mohammed Suleman, District Head of Jakusko Ward, commended the NUJ for the initiative, saying it would enhance peacebuilding in the state.
Suleman urged the state government to assist the affected farmers, especially those affected by the crises.
Also, Alhaji Nasiru Mari, Chairman, United Marketers Association, Potiskum chapter, said that farmers-herders clash and other crises militated against sustainable social and economic development of the state.
For his part, Mr Rajab Mohammed, NUJ Chairman, said the council had embarked on peace advocacy to sensitise crisis-prone communities on the need to coexist harmoniously for peace to reign in the state.
According to him, the exercise is being conducted in collaboration with the state Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.