Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum has facilitated a truce between Fulani herders and farmers in Gamboru Ngala town in the central part of Borno State to foster peace and harmony.
The truce, was brokered after weeks of tension and uncertainty during a peace meeting convened by Governor Zulum on Monday.
The governor, while commending all parties for reaching a consensus during the meeting, urged people to shun all acts that could lead to violence.
He said: “Borno is a state with agrarian communities. We have Fulanis, we have Shuwas, and we have Kanuris who are nomads as well. We have the same culture and the same tradition. Therefore, I urge all the people of Borno to be law-abiding and to ensure they live in peace with one another.”
The governor also assured that the state government is taking all necessary measures to prevent clashes between Fulani herders and farmers in the state.
The meeting was attended by representatives of Fulani herders and the farming community, as well as the senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, a House of Representative member, Engr Bukwr Talba, the Local Government Council Chairman, a House of Assembly member representing Ngala, and traditional and community leaders.
Meanwhile, the governor has announced the constitution of a committee to investigate the causes of conflicts between farmers and herders in Borno State.
The governor made the announcement in Gamboru town on Monday while addressing the press after the distribution of food items and N221.7m to over 67,454 families.
He said: “Let me use this opportunity to announce a committee that will look into the farmers and herders conflicts in all 27 Local Government Areas of Borno State,” said Zulum.
The committee among other issues will re-establish the defunct cattle routes and identify grazing reserves which have not been adequately utilized. He emphasized that the committee’s recommendations will guide the government in addressing the root causes that lead to conflicts between farmers and herders.
The committee which will be chaired by Hon. Tijjani Guzamala, Special Adviser designate, includes representatives from the Nigerian Police, DSS, all emirate councils, Miyetti Allah, Alhaya Association and the Governor’s Office.
