By Palma Ileye
Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria, KACRAN, has urged traditional rulers across the country to take proactive measures in addressing the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers.
KACRAN in a press release issued by its National President, Hon. Khalil Mohd Bello said it was committed to resolving these disputes recognizing the crucial role that the Royal Highnesses (Emirs and Chiefs) can play in fostering peace and dialogue.
The association stated that its appeal was based on the following: “Historically, before the European colonization of Africa, our 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 acknowledged that the Emirs and Chiefs continue to command respect and influence, playing vital roles in mediating conflicts between herders and farmers citing, “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.”
It recalled an incident where the then Executive Chairman of Fika Local Government disregarded the Emir’s directives regarding the Gadana grazing reserve and 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,” the association said.
Given the effectiveness of esteemed Traditional Rulers in resolving herders-farmers conflicts, KACRAN appealed to all Emirs and Chiefs to engage actively in finding lasting solutions to these disputes adding that their respected status as community leaders positions them uniquely to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation.
Additionally, KACRAN called 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.
It said that both farmers and herders recognize the capacity of Traditional Leaders to foster peace, making their involvement essential in this matter.
In conclusion, the association also said that Traditional Leaders were well-positioned to contribute significantly to national peace and stability as it was imperative to fully engage them and provide the necessary support to achieve timely and effective resolutions.
