By Ibrahim Babangida Lawal
Renowned legal practitioner and Social Democratic Party (SDP) Chairmanship candidate for Gwagwalada Area Council, Barrister Khalid Bala Gano, has strongly condemned the killing of a local farmer in Gurfata, describing the attack as a grim reflection of the escalating farmers-herders conflict plaguing rural communities across the Federal Capital Territory.
“This is not merely the loss of a life, it is a blow to the peace and economic stability of a people whose livelihoods depend on the land. We cannot continue on this destructive path,” Barr. Gano said in a statement on Friday.
The incident, which reportedly occurred while the victim was working on his farm, has triggered widespread anger and anxiety in the Gurfata community. Eyewitness accounts suggest the assailants may be herders, sparking fears of renewed communal violence and retaliation unless swift action is taken.
Barr. Gano called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice, stressing that impunity only emboldens further violence.
“The authorities must not delay in acting. Justice must be done swiftly and transparently to restore confidence and avert a cycle of reprisals,” he urged.
Highlighting the broader implications of the recurring violence, Barr. Gano advocated for a sustainable, long-term framework to address the root causes of the crisis. He said temporary solutions had failed to stem the tide of bloodshed and displacements in rural areas of Gwagwalada and beyond.
“Our people need more than condolences. They need action—policy-based, inclusive, and enforceable. This includes land-use clarity, regulated grazing systems, and continuous dialogue among all stakeholders,” he said.
He also emphasized the role of public education in defusing tensions, encouraging both farmers and herders to resolve disputes through legal and peaceful channels.
“Both communities must understand they are partners in development, not enemies. Let us replace weapons with words, and fear with cooperation,” he added.
Barr. Gano reiterated his commitment to peacebuilding, accountability, and inclusive governance, pledging support for all initiatives aimed at promoting unity, economic development, and mutual respect within Gwagwalada Area Council.
“The time to act is now—before more blood is needlessly shed,” he concluded.
