Defence Minister Assures of Federal Government’s Dedication to Check-mate Escalating Farmer-Herder Conflicts
By Comfort Akudiang, Jos
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru has reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to tackling the escalating tensions between farmers and herders.
Addressing a gathering of community leaders, traditional rulers, and security personnel, Badaru expressed deep concern over the persistent violence that has continued in spite of peacekeeping efforts.
The meeting took place at the headquarters of the 3 Division in Rukuba Barracks, Jebu-Bassa in Bassa Local Government Area.
The Minister emphasized that dividing communities based on ethnic or religious affiliations would have catastrophic consequences and that the government would not entertain such divisive demands.
He highlighted the necessity for peaceful coexistence among all parties involved.
Acknowledging the recent violence in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Riyom local government areas, which has resulted in loss of life and property, the Minister vowed to allocate necessary resources to ensure the safety of citizens in the region.
He urged both farmers and herders to abandon violence and seek peaceful solutions, recognizing their mutual reliance for economic prosperity.
He also commended the efforts of security personnel, noting that President Bola Tinubu appreciates their dedication to maintaining peace.
Badaru’s visit sought to engage with key stakeholders to develop strategies to counter rising insecurity, destruction of farms, and incidents of cattle rustling that have been linked to recent conflicts in the state.
“My presence here today fulfills my mandate as the Minister of Defence, responsible for safeguarding our national territory from both external and internal threats,” he stated.
“I will not rest until the federal government and the Ministry of Defence ensure that our citizens can sleep peacefully,” he pledged.
Expressing his discontent over the recurrent violence that has plagued communities like Jol and Sho, Badaru acknowledged the hard work of security agencies in attempting to mediate disputes arising from livestock attacks and farm destruction.
He condemned members of some communities who have pledged to hinder farming activities during the ongoing rainy season despite ongoing efforts to resolve security challenges, emphasizing that such actions are detrimental to all.
Citing the worrying trend of increasing farmer-herder clashes across Nigeria, he reminded stakeholders of their interdependence in ensuring survival.
Badaru encouraged senior security officers to remain steadfast in their duties to help alleviate the ongoing crisis affecting Plateau State and beyond.
