Project – Herdsmen activities and community peace and stability
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
The relationship between herdsmen activities and community peace has become a significant area of study, particularly in regions where pastoralism is a dominant livelihood activity. In many parts of Nigeria, including Uzo Uwani Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, herdsmen have historically engaged in traditional grazing activities, but these have increasingly resulted in conflicts due to competition for resources such as land, water, and pasture. These conflicts have become more pronounced in the last decade, partly due to climate change, population growth, and the expansion of farmland. Several studies (Abubakar et al., 2020; Mbah, 2022) have highlighted that the rising tension between herdsmen and farming communities in the middle-belt and southeastern regions of Nigeria has led to significant disruptions in community peace, stability, and security.
The role of herdsmen in local economies, particularly in agricultural zones like Uzo Uwani, is undeniably important, as they contribute to the local economy through livestock farming and trade. However, the methods of grazing—often involving open grazing of cattle across farmlands—have frequently led to clashes with farmers. The destruction of crops, encroachment on farmlands, and occasional violent confrontations between herders and farmers have been documented in various reports (Adebayo & Akpan, 2019). Uzo Uwani, like many other rural communities, has witnessed a rise in conflicts, which many local stakeholders attribute to these activities. As noted by Eze (2023), the lack of clear demarcations between farming land and grazing routes has been a central factor in the violence between herdsmen and farming communities in southeastern Nigeria.
Scholars have also pointed to the socio-political dimension of these conflicts, emphasizing that ethnic, religious, and political factors often exacerbate the tensions. The influx of Fulani herders into predominantly Igbo farming communities like Uzo Uwani has led to fears of ethnic displacement, a concern that has been raised in multiple studies (Chukwu, 2021). Ethnic tensions between indigenous communities and migrant herders have deepened, particularly when communal land rights are ignored or disputed. According to Okeke (2021), local government authorities in Enugu State have struggled to mediate between farmers and herders, often owing to political pressure and insufficient institutional frameworks. The resulting instability has disrupted social order, led to displacement, and undermined local governance, contributing to a heightened sense of insecurity in the region.
In addition to direct conflict, the activities of herdsmen have been linked to broader socio-economic impacts, such as the disruption of agricultural productivity and food security. The destruction of crops and grazing of cattle on farmlands deprives farmers of their livelihoods, which has long-term implications for community stability. Studies by Oyekunle et al. (2020) have shown that the inability of farmers to access their farmlands due to herdsmen activities leads to reduced agricultural output, food scarcity, and increased poverty in affected communities. These economic disruptions have ripple effects on local peace and stability, as impoverished communities are more vulnerable to social unrest and criminal activities. In Uzo Uwani, where agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy, the impact of these activities has been felt acutely, with many farmers reporting a decline in income and a diminished standard of living.
Furthermore, the involvement of security forces in herder-farmer conflicts in Enugu State has been a contentious issue, with varying perspectives on its effectiveness. In some instances, the deployment of the military and police has done little to resolve the crisis and has, in some cases, escalated tensions (Omotola, 2020). The lack of effective policing and the often-biased nature of security interventions have led to mistrust between local communities and law enforcement agencies. Community leaders in Uzo Uwani have called for better conflict resolution mechanisms, including the establishment of local peace committees and increased involvement of traditional rulers in peacebuilding efforts. As noted by Udeh (2024), traditional institutions, such as the Igbo council of elders, are pivotal in maintaining harmony between diverse groups in the region. These mechanisms have shown promise in reducing conflict, but their effectiveness remains contingent on the political will and cooperation of all stakeholders.
Lastly, while the challenges posed by herdsmen activities are significant, there have been ongoing efforts to find peaceful solutions through dialogue and negotiation. The Enugu State Government, alongside local communities, has worked to implement policies aimed at regulating grazing and promoting sustainable farming practices. For instance, the introduction of cattle ranching schemes and the advocacy for modern grazing technologies have been proposed as alternatives to open grazing, which often leads to conflicts (Ejiofor, 2023). Scholars such as Nwachukwu (2022) suggest that creating spaces for dialogue between herders, farmers, and government officials can foster mutual understanding and create lasting solutions to these conflicts. Despite these efforts, the path to lasting peace and stability in Uzo Uwani remains fraught with challenges, underscoring the need for comprehensive policy reforms, community engagement, and collaborative governance.
1.2. Statement of the Problem
The conflict between herdsmen and farming communities has become one of the most pressing issues affecting rural areas in Nigeria. In Uzo Uwani Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, the rising activities of herders—particularly from the Fulani ethnic group—have led to significant tensions between herdsmen and indigenous farming communities. Over the past few years, from 2017 to 2024, there has been a marked increase in violent clashes over the destruction of crops, encroachment on farmland, and competition for natural resources such as water and pasture. These conflicts not only affect agricultural productivity but also disrupt community peace and stability. The lack of a sustainable framework to address these recurring disputes has heightened insecurity and undermined social cohesion within these communities.
The central problem in Uzo Uwani, as in many other parts of southeastern Nigeria, is the challenge of managing pastoralism in a region predominantly known for crop farming. Historically, herders in Nigeria followed traditional grazing routes, but over time, population growth, urban expansion, and climate change have forced them to move closer to farming areas. This increased proximity to agricultural lands has resulted in frequent clashes, often leading to the destruction of crops, displacement of farmers, and, at times, loss of life. Despite the economic and social importance of pastoralism, the methods of cattle grazing, particularly open grazing, have become increasingly untenable in the face of growing rural populations and limited land resources. This situation has escalated local tensions, with negative consequences for the peace and stability of Uzo Uwani and its surrounding areas.
Another critical aspect of the problem is the failure of local government structures and security agencies to effectively mediate between herders and farmers in Uzo Uwani. In many instances, state and local governments have been unable to provide adequate solutions or enforce existing laws designed to regulate grazing activities. Community leaders, traditional rulers, and local stakeholders often express frustration at the lack of governmental intervention, which has allowed the conflicts to persist and intensify. In particular, the absence of a clear policy on land use and grazing regulations has contributed to the crisis. Farmers in Uzo Uwani frequently claim that the state has not done enough to protect their rights to farmlands, while herders argue that they have been denied access to their traditional grazing routes.
Compounding these challenges are the broader socio-political dynamics in Nigeria, including ethnic and religious tensions. The influx of Fulani herders into southeastern Nigeria, a predominantly Igbo region, has triggered fears of ethnic domination, especially in the wake of violent confrontations in other parts of the country. In Uzo Uwani, this ethnic tension is compounded by distrust between the indigenous farming population and the migrant herders. Many farmers view the presence of the herders as a form of land invasion, while some herders perceive the local population as hostile and unwelcoming. These tensions are often amplified by local political narratives, making it more difficult to foster cooperative dialogue or find lasting solutions to the crisis.
Additionally, the economic implications of these conflicts are severe, particularly in a region where agriculture is the primary livelihood for the majority of the population. The ongoing destruction of crops and displacement of farmers has led to reduced agricultural output, which in turn affects local food security and the broader economy of Uzo Uwani. As agricultural productivity declines, poverty levels increase, and the social fabric of the community weakens. In many cases, families who rely on farming for their survival are forced to abandon their livelihoods, leading to an increase in social unrest, crime, and migration to urban centers. This economic destabilization, driven by the herdsmen-farmer conflicts, has long-term consequences for community peace and stability.
The lack of effective conflict resolution mechanisms in Uzo Uwani further exacerbates the problem. While traditional institutions like the Igbo council of elders have historically played a role in resolving local disputes, their influence has waned in the face of modern challenges. The security forces, including the police and military, are often seen as ineffective or biased in their interventions, leading to further mistrust and frustration among local communities. Without adequate conflict management structures, both at the local and state levels, the situation remains volatile, with each clash between herders and farmers increasing the risk of further violence. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore sustainable and inclusive approaches to conflict resolution that can address both the immediate and root causes of the crisis in Uzo Uwani.
The problem of herdsmen activities and its impact on community peace and stability in Uzo Uwani, Enugu State, remains a critical concern. The persistent clashes between herders and farmers, compounded by ineffective governance, socio-political tensions, economic disruption, and the absence of clear policies on land and grazing, have destabilized the local community. This situation calls for an in-depth investigation into the underlying causes of the conflict, as well as the identification of potential solutions that can restore peace, ensure security, and promote sustainable livelihoods for both herders and farmers in the region.
1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine Herdsmen activities and community peace and stability: A study of uzo uwani local government area Enugu state (2017-2024). The specific objectives are:
- To examine the impact of herdsmen activities on community peace and stability in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area.
- To identify the factors contributing to conflicts between herdsmen and the local community in the study area.
- To assess the effectiveness of existing conflict resolution mechanisms in addressing issues related to herdsmen activities.
- To explore the perceptions of both herdsmen and the local community regarding the relationship between their activities and community peace.
1.4. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- What is the impact of herdsmen activities on community peace and stability in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area?
- What are the factors contributing to conflicts between herdsmen and the local community in the study area?
- How effective are existing conflict resolution mechanisms in addressing issues related to herdsmen activities?
- What are the perceptions of both herdsmen and the local community regarding the relationship between their activities and community peace?
1.5. Research Hypothesis
The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Herdsmen activities have no impact on community peace and stability in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area.
H1: Herdsmen activities have impact on community peace and stability in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area.
1.6. Significance of the Study
The significance of this study on “Herdsmen Activities and Community Peace and Stability: A Study of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Enugu State (2017-2024)” lies in its potential to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between herdsmen activities and community peace in rural Nigeria. In recent years, conflicts between farmers and herders have escalated in various regions, leading to significant socio-political instability. This research is crucial for uncovering the underlying factors driving these conflicts, with a particular focus on the Uzo-Uwani area of Enugu State. By exploring the dynamics of herders’ movements, land disputes, and community interactions, the study will contribute to the discourse on sustainable peace-building strategies in the region.
One of the key contributions of this study is its ability to provide local and regional policymakers with a more nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to communal violence and instability. Uzo-Uwani, like many rural areas in Nigeria, has experienced tensions between farmers and herders, which have often been exacerbated by competition for resources such as land, water, and grazing routes. Understanding how these conflicts manifest and evolve within the local context will help policymakers develop targeted interventions that address the root causes of such tensions. This research could guide the design of conflict resolution mechanisms that prioritize the interests of both farming and herding communities.
Additionally, the study will fill a critical gap in literature by focusing on a specific locality within Enugu State, which has not received much scholarly attention in relation to herdsmen-farmer conflicts. Most existing research has focused on other parts of Nigeria, such as the Middle Belt or Northern regions, where such conflicts have been more prominent. By examining Uzo-Uwani’s unique social, economic, and environmental conditions, the study will highlight the regional variations in the nature of herder-farmer conflicts, thereby broadening the scope of existing knowledge on this pressing issue. The findings could also provide a template for similar studies in other parts of Nigeria, fostering a more comprehensive national understanding.
This research is also significant because it considers the social, economic, and cultural factors influencing community responses to herdsmen activities. Rural communities in Nigeria often have strong communal ties, and the impacts of herdsmen activities on local peace and stability are felt differently depending on the existing relationships between various ethnic, religious, and social groups. By investigating these dimensions, the study will explore how traditional institutions, local governance, and community leadership structures play a role in either mitigating or exacerbating conflict. This is important for identifying potential allies in peacebuilding efforts and ensuring that any interventions are culturally sensitive and community-driven.
Furthermore, the study will contribute to the ongoing national discourse on the herder-farmer conflicts, offering insights that could influence national policy on land use, grazing routes, and security. Given the widespread concern about the displacement of people due to herders’ activities and the associated human rights violations, understanding the impact of these activities on local communities is crucial for creating long-term solutions. The study’s findings could provide evidence to support the development of policies that promote peaceful coexistence, the equitable distribution of land, and the protection of local communities from external threats posed by unchecked herder activities.
Finally, this study’s significance extends to its potential to offer practical recommendations for improving security and fostering peace in Uzo-Uwani and similar communities. The escalating violence between herders and farmers has become a national security concern, with many rural communities bearing the brunt of the conflict. By proposing community-based solutions, such as dialogue forums, conflict mediation practices, and the establishment of collaborative resource management programs, the research could help foster a more peaceful and stable environment. Moreover, the insights gained from this study could help strengthen community resilience and improve the overall well-being of residents in Uzo-Uwani, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the area.
1.7. Scope of the Study
The study examines Herdsmen activities and community peace and stability: A study of uzo uwani local government area Enugu state (2017-2024).
1.8. Operational Definition of Terms
Herdsmen Activities: Herdsmen activities refer to the actions and practices carried out by individuals or groups who engage in the management and movement of livestock, primarily cattle, within a given area. These activities typically include grazing, watering, and tending to the animals, as well as the seasonal migration of herds from one location to another in search of better grazing grounds or water sources. In some contexts, herdsmen activities may also involve the construction of temporary shelters for both the herders and their livestock, as well as engaging in trade or selling of cattle. In Nigeria, these activities often intersect with issues of land use, environmental sustainability, and, in recent years, conflict with farmers over land and resource access.
Community: A community is a group of people who share a common geographical area, culture, interests, values, or social ties. In the context of this study, a community refers to the residents of a particular locality, such as Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State, who interact with one another through social, economic, and cultural relationships. Communities are typically bound by a sense of belonging and mutual support, and their members often collaborate on solving local issues, such as those arising from herdsmen activities. Communities can vary in size, and the cohesion of a community is influenced by factors such as shared values, economic activities, and the effectiveness of local governance and leadership.
Peace: Peace refers to the absence of conflict, violence, or disturbance in a society or community. It encompasses both the absence of direct physical harm and the presence of harmony in social relations. In this study, peace is understood as the state in which the members of a community coexist without violence or major disruptions caused by the activities of herdsmen or other factors. Peace also involves the establishment of systems of justice, respect for the rule of law, and the maintenance of social order. Additionally, peace can be seen as a process of mutual understanding and collaboration between groups with different interests, such as farmers and herders, to ensure that both can live and work together harmoniously.
Stability: Stability refers to the ability of a community or society to maintain a consistent and functional state over time, without major disruptions that threaten its social, economic, or political systems. It includes the maintenance of social order, economic well-being, and political peace. In the context of this study, stability is the capacity of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area to function effectively despite the challenges posed by herdsmen activities. It involves maintaining a balance between various groups, ensuring that resources are shared equitably, and preventing or resolving conflicts in ways that do not destabilize the community. Stability also implies resilience, where the community can recover from disturbances or crises, such as conflicts or environmental stress, and return to a state of normalcy.