The Ogun State Government has established a Farmers–Herders Conflict Resolution Committee to tackle cattle rustling and disputes that threaten agricultural productivity, rural safety, and community peace.

The committee, announced on Friday, will also handle crop verification, livestock loss assessment, community sensitisation, data collection, and trust-building initiatives between farmers and herders. 

Its work is aimed at fostering synergy and cooperation to ensure food security in the state.

Commissioner for Food and Security, Mr. Bolu Owotomo, revealed the initiative during the Stakeholders Meeting on Security for Farmers, Herders, and Livestock Production, held at the Ogun State Veterinary Complex in Abeokuta. 

The meeting was themed “Strengthening Collaboration For Food Security: Addressing Farmers-Herders Clash.”

Owotomo said the committee’s purpose is to ensure peaceful coexistence and address challenges, particularly cattle rustling, to maximise food production across the state. 

He added that, with the onset of the dry season, farmers and herders must develop mutual understanding and unity to boost both crop and livestock production, key pillars of food security, job creation, and industrial growth.

He emphasised the government’s commitment, stating,

“We will not fold our arms and watch conflicts escalate, sometimes resulting in death”. 

“Protecting farmers and herders is a core priority because our progress depends on peaceful cooperation between these sectors.”

The committee has already been involved in rapid dispute resolution, verification of crop and livestock losses, sensitisation programmes, and trust rebuilding at the community level. Owotomo confirmed that the government will continue to provide strong support, particularly during the dry season.

Speaking at the event, Agbeloba Oladele Awoleri, Chairman of the Cassava Growers Association in Ogun State, welcomed the initiative. 

He said he was confident that the committee would foster cordial relationships between farmers and herders, noting that similar programmes had been successful in other states.

The Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta, Mohammad Kabie Labar, also praised the government’s intervention, stressing that the committee would maintain grassroots peace and prevent future clashes.

Source: The Guardian