ASSESSMENT OF EFFECT OF FARMER-PASTORALIST CONFLICTS ON RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN OMALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE.

Abstract

This study examined the causes of farmer-pastoralist conflicts, consequences for rural development as well as conflict resolution mechanism in Omala Local Government area of Kogi state. The study adopted triangulation methodological approach using both qualitative and quantitative approaches and focus group discussion (FGD) as well as structure and unstructured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution and tables. The study revealed among others that land encroachment without permission, , inadequate grazing reserves, lack of access to water points, killing of stray cattle, pollution of water point, cattle routes blockage, Mbororo migrant, ECOWAS treaty fertile land of host community, socio-economic, cultural differences, political economy of cattle herders were major causes and persistency of farmers-pastoralist conflicts. The consequences are crop damage, loss of lives and properties including harvested crops and livestock as well as destruction of infrastructural facilities. Based on findings, the study among others recommends the need for demarcation of cattle routes and its strict enforcement, regulate the influx of pastoralists from neighboring countries, rehabilitation of the numerous grazing reserves across the country and establishment of cattle colonies.