Traditional Rulers have role in curbing Farmers Harders Conflict-KACRAN

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu 

The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has made a passionate appeal to traditional rulers across the country to take proactive measures in resolving the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers.

In a statement by the KACRAN national president,Khalil Mohd Bello made available to journalists in Damaturu,emphasized the importance of traditional rulers’ involvement in resolving herders-farmers conflicts.

According to the statement, historically, before the European colonization of Africa,Traditional Rulers had complete authority over land management. African pastoralists, known for their law-abiding nature, would seek permission from Emirs and Chiefs before moving into new areas for grazing. Similarly, farmers would approach Traditional Rulers to request land for cultivation, ensuring mutual respect and cooperation.

Although contemporary laws designate state governments as the primary landowners, the traditional land tenure system still recognizes Traditional Rulers as custodians of land within their domains.

KACRAN acknowledges that Emirs and Chiefs continue to command respect and influence, playing vital roles in mediating conflicts between herders and farmers. A notable example is His Royal Highness the Emir of Fika, Alhaji Muhammad Ibn Abali Ibn Idrisa, who actively engages with KACRAN and utilizes his authority to maintain peace during farming seasons. His efforts include monitoring grazing reserves and enforcing compliance to prevent encroachment.

"We recall an incident where the then Executive Chairman of Fika Local Government disregarded the Emir's directives regarding the Gadana grazing reserve. The Emir's decisive action led to the removal of encroaching maize crops, thereby preventing potential conflicts.

"Another commendable example is His Royal Highness the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Suleiman, who is currently assisting the Yobe State Government in reclaiming the Jakusko Nasari grazing reserve from encroachment by farmers, a process that has benefited from his strong intervention.

"Given the effectiveness of our esteemed Traditional Rulers in resolving herders-farmers conflicts, we passionately appeal to all Emirs and Chiefs to engage actively in finding lasting solutions to these disputes. Their respected status as community leaders positions them uniquely to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation.

"Additionally, KACRAN calls upon state governments to empower Traditional Rulers by providing them with administrative authority, financial resources, and logistical support to effectively mediate these conflicts within their domains.

"Both farmers and herders recognize the capacity of Traditional Leaders to foster peace, making their involvement essential in this matter". 

In conclusion, "our Traditional Leaders are well-positioned to contribute significantly to national peace and stability. It is imperative to fully engage them and provide the necessary support to achieve timely and effective resolutions".