The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, says over 60,000 people have been killed since 2001 in the clashes between farmers and herders in the country.
Kalu disclosed this on Monday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Ad hoc committee to interface with stakeholders with a view to finding a lasting solution to recurring clashes between farmers and herders in Yemaltu-Deba and neighboring local government areas, including other regions of the country with similar incidents.
He noted that these conflicts have escalated in recent years, saying it was consequential to the country’s national security.
The deputy speaker stresses what was even more concerning was the appropriation of these conflicts by terror groups, bandits and international criminal organizations.
He said the task before the committee was very critical and of utmost national importance as it directly affects both national and food security.
Kalu added that what was clear from the foregoing was that the country was not only dealing with a national security problem but also a food security challenge.
He noted that no doubt, these conflicts are in part triggered by the global environmental challenge of climate change.
His words: “In the past, these clashes were viewed as mere communal clashes arising from disputes over farming land, grazing spaces, and water, which were largely confined to northern Nigeria.
“However, the clashes have long escalated and spread to other parts of the country, taking on political and ethno-religious dimensions. It ought not to be so.
“In addition, there are claims of violent herders infiltrating our borders from neighboring countries and perpetuating killings, cattle rustling, and destruction of property.
“The clashes have resulted in avoidable losses of lives and property. It is estimated that over 60,000 people have been killed since 2001. It ought not to be so.”
The deputy speaker stressed that given its implications for the collective good of the nation, the House resolved to take a critical look into the causes, nature, dimensions, actors, impact, and possible solution to this nagging national challenge.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Adhoc committee, Hon. Aliyu Misau, said the issues faced by farmers and herders have reached a critical juncture, demanding immediate attention and collaborative efforts to find sustainable solution.
Misau added that these conflicts not only disrupt rural communities but also have broader socio economic and political implications in the nation.
According to him, “Our primary objective is to bridge the divide and foster improved understanding among farmers and herders taking into cognizance the unique challenges faced by the groups by promoting dialogue, building trust and creating an environment where mutual respect and shared prosperity can thrive.”