On this historic day of April 20, 2024, a momentous event unfolded at the International Conference Center of the University of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, Nigeria. The Summit of the Commodity Farmers’ Organization witnessed a significant development as a peace accord was signed between the farmers of the South-West region and the herders. This pivotal agreement was represented by Segun Dasaolu, Coordinator for the South-West of the Farmers’ Organization of Commodities (CFO), and Othman Ngelzarma, the National President of the Livestock Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
During the signing ceremony, impassioned speeches underscored the critical necessity of fostering a peaceful environment that would facilitate the prosperity of both factions. Segun Dasaolu emphasized that the primary aim of the summit was to encourage the return of South-West farmers to their lands and bolster food security within the nation. He also articulated the farmers’ need for governmental support through policies and aid.
Conversely, the National President of MACBAN, Othman Ngelzarma, stressed that without peaceful coexistence, progress remains unattainable. He expressed a keen willingness to collaborate with farmers to ensure food security in Nigeria while combatting kidnappings not only in the South-West but across the entire country.
Historically, tensions between South-West farmers and herders have been inflamed by recurrent conflicts arising from damage caused by livestock herds during grazing activities. These conflicts have tragically escalated into violence, resulting in loss of life and forced displacements, fueling hostilities towards the herders, primarily from the Fulani ethnic group.
The signing of this peace agreement holds paramount significance in quelling these conflicts and establishing a platform for cooperation and mutual understanding between the two groups. Let us collectively hope that this agreement heralds the dawn of an era marked by peace and fruitful collaboration for the collective good of all involved.