The Rivers State Government, led by its Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has inaugurated a farmer-herder conflict resolution committee to stem the tide of clashes between farmers and herders across the state.
The move, unveiled in Port Harcourt on Thursday, was described as a proactive measure to address rising tensions and promote peaceful coexistence among communities reliant on agriculture and livestock rearing.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibibia Worika, who also chairs the committee, said the government was determined to mitigate disputes that have led to “loss of lives, displacement, and economic disruptions.”
“Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy. Yet, within this vital sector, conflicts, particularly between farmers and herders, have become increasingly destructive,” Worika stated.
He explained that the initiative was part of the broader commitment of Ibok-Ete Ibas to foster dialogue, promote justice, and ensure peaceful coexistence.
According to Worika, the committee has been tasked with several responsibilities aimed at early detection and resolution of conflict.
“The farmers and herders committee has therefore been constituted to identify and address early warning signs of tension between farmers and herders across the state, mediate and resolve disputes amicably through community-based, non-violent mechanisms, and ensure that grazing and farming activities are conducted within the bounds of law and environmental sustainability,” he said.
He added that the body would also advise the government on land use policies, pasture development, and water resource management, while promoting community sensitisation and advocacy.
Highlighting the diverse composition of the committee, Worika said members were drawn from traditional institutions, security agencies, farmers’ and herders’ associations, civil society groups, and key ministries such as Agriculture, Local Government, and Justice.
“This inclusive, inter-sectoral approach underscores the seriousness with which the government is tackling this issue,” he explained.
Worika called on members to carry out their work with wisdom, fairness, and diligence, noting that beyond preventing clashes, the committee must build trust and forge partnerships between critical stakeholders.
“Our task is not only to prevent conflict but to build trust and forge partnerships between the various communities that sustain our economy and our peace,” he noted.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as Secretary to the committee, ensuring coordination between stakeholders and the government’s policy framework.
The inauguration comes amid increasing national attention on herder-farmer clashes, a crisis that has strained inter-communal relations and threatened food production in several parts of the country.
The post Rivers Inaugurates Farmer-Herder Peace Committee appeared first on Naija News.