By Yusuf Idowu Abass
In a decisive move to prevent recurring tensions between farmers and herders in Osun State, the Amotekun Corps has engaged with Fulani community leaders to address the destruction of farmlands by livestock.
According to a press statement made available by the Public Relations Officer of the Osun Amotekun Corps, Yusuf Idowu Abass, the meeting, held at the Amotekun Headquarters in Osogbo, was aimed at strengthening cooperation and fostering mutual understanding between security officials and the Fulani community.
Speaking on behalf of the Corps Commander, Field Commander Akanni emphasized that the security outfit was not targeting Fulani herders but was committed to ensuring peace between them and local farmers.
He stated that the Corps’ primary concern was to end open grazing, which frequently leads to cattle straying onto farmlands and damaging crops. “We do not want to hear that cows are eating people’s farms,” Akanni said, urging Fulani leaders to educate their communities on responsible grazing practices. He assured them that there was no government stance against the Fulani and that the goal was to find a workable solution for all parties involved.
To tackle the issue effectively, the Osun Amotekun Corps proposed forming a joint task force comprising both its operatives and Fulani representatives. The task force would monitor livestock movements, identify herders who violate grazing rules, and work to prevent further farm invasions.
When speaking, Alhaji Ibrahim Dende, the Seriki Fulani of Osun State, assured Amotekun of the Fulani leadership’s commitment to exposing any criminal elements among herders. He explained that most cases of farm destruction were caused by foreign Fulani herders who enter Osun State unnoticed, settle in remote areas, and flee after causing damage. He said the local Fulani leadership keeps detailed records of herders in the state, with two leaders assigned to each local government area to monitor activities. He pledged that the Fulani leadership would assist in identifying and reporting any individuals involved in criminal activities, stressing that legitimate herders also suffered due to the actions of lawless groups.
Farmer-herder conflicts have led to violent clashes across Nigeria, often resulting in loss of lives and property. However, the latest engagement between Osun Amotekun and Fulani leaders signals a shift toward collaboration rather than confrontation.
By forming a joint task force and improving communication, both parties aim to prevent future conflicts and ensure that farmers can cultivate their crops without fear of destruction.
