Govt, Emirs Unite to Curb Farmer-Herder Conflicts in Bauchi

By Beatrice Gondyi, Bauchi

Bauchi State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Alhaji Bala Lukshi, has called on traditional rulers across the state to support government efforts in maintaining the right of way along designated stock routes to promote peace and prevent recurrent farmer-herder conflicts.

Speaking during an engagement visit to various Emirate Councils, the Commissioner emphasized that the state government has enacted a law mandating the protection and adherence to stock route boundaries. He urged the royal fathers to use their influence in enlightening their subjects on the importance of observing the law, stressing that respecting the right of way remains vital to ensuring peaceful coexistence.

According to him, “Adherence to the right-of-way law is a critical step towards reducing misunderstandings and clashes between farmers and herders. We seek your support in ensuring that this message reaches the grassroots.”

Also speaking, the Overseeing Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock Development, Alhaji Yakubu Aliyu, said the visit was a directive from Governor Bala Mohammed to engage traditional institutions and other stakeholders in promoting sustainable peace between farmers and herders.

In her remarks, a Livestock Development Consultant from Tunisia, Dr. Emal Esseim, expressed readiness to collaborate with the Bauchi State Government to advance livestock management practices. She pledged to share her expertise and experience to help improve productivity and harmony within the sector.

Responding separately, the Emirs of Katagum, Misau, Ningi, Jama’are, and Dass — and later in Bauchi — all commended the initiative, noting the alarming rate at which farmlands encroach on cattle routes. They pledged their full support to the government’s initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace and development in their domains.

They stressed that sustained cooperation between communities and adherence to the right-of-way law are essential for lasting peace and agricultural progress across the state.