AGRO – PASTORALIST CONFLICTS IN BENUE STATE NIGERIA: HAZARDS AND IMPERATIVE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION

Abstract

In recent times the relationship between agro-farmers and pastoralists have taking a twist from what existed decades ago were the droplets from herds served as manure for crops and were the later provided food for the herds. That twist which is informed by the competition and struggle over ecological scarce resources for survival by the two groups has contravened certain fundamental human rights provisions which needed to be promoted, preserved and protected. Relying on qualitative analytical methodology anchored on eco-violence orientation, the paper observed that the situation has been characterized by killings of farmers and pastoralists, clashes between public and private security forces and local militias resulting in deaths also, destruction of farmlands and farm produce as well as displacement of citizens from their homelands and exposing them to sever lack of basic necessities for survival – adequate shelter, food, water, healthcare, sanitary conditions and human rights abuse – with women and children being the most vulnerable. This paper submits that the conflict situation is inimical to the protection of the inalienable rights of the citizens of Benue State and therefore calls on governments at all levels including community based organization, civil society organizations, the International community and well spirited individuals to initiate and implement appropriate laws, peacebuilding and human rights protection strategies, that will bring about sustainable peace and protection of the remaining lives of the citizens of Benue State and other States in North Central Nigeria.