As the rainy season commences across Nigeria, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has issued a strong call for peace and harmony between farmers and herders. Recognizing the crucial role of both groups in national food security, KACRAN emphasized that a peaceful environment is essential for the success of their respective agricultural endeavors.
KACRAN in a statement by the National President, Hon. Khalil Moh’d Bello highlighted the ongoing efforts of federal, state, and local governments to ensure a successful farming season and abundant harvests. Aligning with this objective, KACRAN, an association committed to peace and unity as cornerstones for economic prosperity, urged farmers and herders nationwide to conduct their businesses in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
Read Also: Eight degrees that can land you a high-paying UK job
“To further this message, KACRAN today organized a peace sensitization initiative aimed at educating farmers and herders on the importance of peaceful coexistence in their daily operations and their broader contribution to national development.”
KACRAN stated that the crucial gathering was prompted by the association’s observation that a significant portion of insecurity issues, particularly in northern Nigeria, stems from localized conflicts between farmers and herders. Addressing these grassroots disputes, KACRAN believes, would substantially reduce overall insecurity in the country.
To prevent potential conflicts, KACRAN appealed to pastoralists to avoid encroaching on or damaging farmlands with their livestock. Simultaneously, the association advised farmers to refrain from practices that obstruct traditional grazing reserves and cattle routes.
“KACRAN strongly urged both farmers and herders to avoid taking the law into their own hands when disputes arise, whether concerning farm destruction, encroachment on grazing land, or blockage of cattle paths. Instead, the association advocated for dialogue and negotiation as the primary means of resolving any misunderstandings.”
The statement underscored that the “future of peaceful coexistence rests with the farmers and herders themselves, urging them to choose mutual understanding over conflict, which only wastes valuable resources and energy on resolvable issues.”
KACRAN called upon both groups to be law-abiding, friendly, and peace-loving citizens who contribute positively to their communities, states, and Nigeria as a whole, thereby leaving a legacy of peace and unity for future generations.
The association further urged farmers and herders to provide full support and cooperation to government bodies, traditional leaders, security agencies, and all legal institutions working to maintain peace and unity in the country, which are vital for national development and prosperity.
KACRAN also expressed its sincere appreciation to His Excellency, Honourable Mai Mala Buni, the Governor of Yobe State, for his support and compassionate policies benefiting pastoralists in the state.
Furthermore, KACRAN acknowledged the vital role of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in providing essential palliatives and water points for herders in the region.
In the same vein, KACRAN commended Dr. Mohamed Goje, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), for his dedicated efforts in complementing Governor Buni’s development programs, including the provision of animal feed and other crucial support to pastoralists.
The association also extended its gratitude to traditional rulers for their fatherly role in maintaining peace and unity within their respective domains.
In conclusion, KACRAN conveyed its highest commendation to law enforcement agencies for their tireless work in maintaining peace and the unity of Nigeria, reiterating that the importance of embracing peace and harmony in their businesses cannot be overstated. KACRAN once again appealed for peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
