The Impact of Constitutional Law on Addressing Farmer-Herder Conflicts: A Study of Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Farmer-herder conflicts have become a significant socio-political issue in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where agriculture and pastoralism are predominant livelihoods. These conflicts are often driven by competition for land, water resources, and grazing routes, exacerbated by ethnic and religious tensions. The Nigerian Constitution recognizes the rights of citizens to own property and engage in agricultural and pastoral activities (Ayodele & Nwachukwu, 2024). However, the legal framework addressing these conflicts is often seen as insufficient in providing long-term solutions. This study will explore how constitutional law can help address the farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State, examining both the legal provisions and their implementation.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Farmer-herder conflicts continue to cause significant losses in lives and property across Nigeria, including in Jalingo LGA. While the Nigerian Constitution guarantees property rights and freedom of movement, the escalation of these conflicts in recent years highlights the gap in effective legal frameworks and enforcement. This study will investigate how constitutional law can be better utilized to mitigate these conflicts and propose legal reforms to ensure peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders in the region.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
-
To assess the role of constitutional law in addressing farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo LGA.
-
To identify the legal challenges in resolving farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo.
-
To recommend legal and policy reforms that can improve the management of farmer-herder conflicts.
1.4 Research Questions
-
How does constitutional law address farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo LGA?
-
What legal challenges hinder the effective resolution of farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo?
-
What constitutional reforms can help mitigate farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
-
H₁: The implementation of constitutional provisions addressing property rights and freedom of movement has not been effective in preventing farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo.
-
H₂: The lack of a clear legal framework specifically addressing farmer-herder conflicts contributes significantly to their persistence in Jalingo LGA.
-
H₃: Strengthening the legal frameworks for land use and resource management can reduce farmer-herder conflicts in Jalingo LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on conflict resolution and constitutional law in Nigeria. It will provide insights into the effectiveness of the Nigerian Constitution in managing rural conflicts and offer recommendations for legal reforms to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, which is essential for the socio-economic development of Jalingo LGA and similar regions in Nigeria.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Jalingo LGA, Taraba State, and will examine constitutional law’s role in addressing farmer-herder conflicts. Limitations include challenges in accessing data from local farmers, herders, and government officials, as well as potential political sensitivities surrounding the issue.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
-
Farmer-Herder Conflicts: Disputes between farmers and herders over land use, grazing routes, and resources such as water and pasture.
-
Constitutional Law: The body of laws and legal principles derived from the Nigerian Constitution that regulate the rights and freedoms of citizens.
-
Property Rights: Legal protections ensuring individuals' rights to own and use land and other resources.
