By Mala Abdulazeez.
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged traditional rulers nationwide to proactively address the persistent conflicts between herders and farmers.
KACRAN National President Khalil Mohammed Bello emphasized the critical role of traditional rulers in resolving these disputes.
This call to action is grounded in the historical position of traditional rulers as custodians of the land and their continuing influence in mediating disagreements.
KACRAN asserts that traditional rulers possess the authority to regulate grazing and farming permissions, fostering mutual respect and cooperation between the two groups.
KACRAN recognizes the positive efforts of the Emir of Fika, Alhaji Muhammad Ibn Abali Ibn Idrisa, and other traditional rulers who have actively collaborated with KACRAN to promote peace and unity during farming seasons. For example, the Fika Emirate monitors grazing reserves and enforces compliance to prevent encroachment. Their swift action in a recent incident involving the Gadana grazing reserve averted potential conflict.
Similarly, KACRAN commended the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Suleiman, for his assistance to the Yobe State Government in reclaiming the Jakusko Nasari grazing reserve from encroachment by farmers.
KACRAN’s appeal stems from the traditional rulers’ status as community leaders, enabling them to bridge divides, facilitate dialogue, and foster reconciliation.
Furthermore, KACRAN has called on all state governments to empower traditional rulers by providing them with the necessary administrative authority, financial resources, and logistical support to effectively mediate conflicts within their areas of influence.
In essence, KACRAN’s appeal is a renewed call for traditional rulers to actively leverage their influence and authority to resolve the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers.
