From Tunde Omolehin, Sokoto
As part of efforts to reduce farmer-herder clashes, the Sokoto State government has revived the conflict resolution committee in the state.
Speaking during the inauguration event, the Commissioner, Ministry for Animals and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar Tureta, said the move was supported through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project.
The Commissioner said the committee, which was established in 1990, had not been functioning as expected, leading to frequent communal clashes between farmers and herders in some parts of the state.
He emphasized the need to promote peaceful coexistence among stakeholders and ensure a productive working relationship between beneficiaries and officers.
He also stressed that reducing conflicts between farmers and herders was crucial to boosting livestock production in the state.
Tureta however underscored the symbiotic relationship between herders and farmers, noting that while herders provide meat and milk, farmers supply food for livestock.
“Therefore, bringing them together is essential for the mutual development of all parties involved.
In his remark, Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who was represented by Sa’in Kilgori Alhaji Muhammadu Jabbi Kilgori, emphasized the importance of harmonious cooperation between farmers and herders.
He commended the ministry and the L-Pres Project in Sokoto for reviving the committee, deeming it timely.
The committee was composed of members from various sectors, including security agencies, traditional rulers, farmers, and herders.