Resurgence of Farmers-Herders Conflict in Gombe After Mu’azu’s Exit

By Abubakar Rabilu in Gombe

Farmers-herders conflicts in Nigeria continue to be a serious concern and a problem at the same time, threatening both livelihoods and food security.Matual cooperation and understanding between two actors, Government and general public. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), through its Agro Rangers Unit, has played a very prominent role in reducing these disputes and protecting agricultural investments across the country.

 

In Gombe State, Muhammad Bello Mu’azu, a former NSCDC Commandant, stood out for his efforts in addressing the long-standing tensions between farmers and herders. His leadership, based on action and working closely with communities and patties concerned, created a peaceful environment that benefited everyone.

 

Mu’azu took a proactive approach to prevent conflicts. He deployed Agro Rangers, a team trained to handle disputes, to key perceived areas where conflicts were likely to occur. These rangers helped keep herders away from farmlands during harvest periods, reducing tensions and safeguarding crops.

 

The former commandant also went beyond his official duties, personally funding security operations and ensuring round-the-clock surveillance in vulnerable areas like Tula and secret cattle routes. This gave farmers the confidence to work without fear.

 

During his time in office, Gombe State did not record any farmer-herder clashes, a remarkable achievement in a region known for such disputes. For example, when herders damaged crops in Deba, Mu’azu acted swiftly.

 

The culprits were arrested and were made to pay to the farmers nearly four million naira, which was given to the affected farmers as compensation. This strong action discouraged others from trespassing on farmlands.

 

Mu’azu’s efforts extended beyond stopping conflicts. He worked to improve safety by closely monitoring farmlands, listening to the concerns of both farmers and herders, and building trust among communities.

 

This approach increased crop yields and boosted the local economy. He also supported local vigilantes by providing them with tools and resources to maintain peace.

 

Gombe became a safer place under Mu’azu’s leadership, serving as an example for other states, especially in the North-East region. However, after his transfer outside Gombe following his elevation to Assistant Commandant General, ACG, violent incidents began to resurface.

 

The killing of a farmer in Lano village in Yamaltu/Deba Local Government and the destruction of food supplies in Powishi village highlighted the loss of the peace that had been achieved.

 

Mu’azu’s impact was not limited to resolving farmer- herders conflicts. He also addressed other crimes effectively. Over 109 stolen cattle were recovered, and several rustlers were arrested.

 

On the 4,158 cases reported to the NSCDC during his tenure, more than 3,000 were resolved peacefully, and over 1,100 were prosecuted in court. The NSCDC also recovered over 200 million naira lost in financial disputes and shut down illegal mining sites, protecting the environment.

 

Mu’azu’s time in Gombe serves as a powerful example of effective leadership. His innovative strategies and dedication to the community showed that even the most difficult challenges could be solved with the right approach. Many in Gombe still remember his work and hope for leaders who can bring back the peace and stability he achieved.