An investigation of the impact of farmer-herder conflicts on food security in Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Farmer-herder conflicts have become one of the most contentious issues in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in the middle-belt region, including Plateau State. The tensions between farmers and pastoralists, primarily involving the destruction of crops, livestock grazing, and the competition for resources such as land and water, have led to violent clashes, loss of lives, and displacement of communities. Riyom Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State has witnessed recurring conflicts between farmers and herders over the years, exacerbated by climate change, population growth, and the increasing scarcity of arable land. These conflicts not only disrupt the social fabric of affected communities but also pose a significant threat to food security, as farming and pastoralism are key contributors to local livelihoods. Research by Akinyemi & Usman (2023) has shown that such conflicts can undermine agricultural productivity, reduce access to essential food supplies, and lead to food insecurity in conflict-prone areas. The displacement of farmers and herders due to violent clashes further complicates the food security situation, as affected populations struggle to maintain their means of subsistence. The broader implications of these conflicts for food security are significant, as they disrupt local economies and food systems, leading to shortages, inflation, and food price instability. This study aims to investigate the impact of farmer-herder conflicts on food security in Riyom LGA, Plateau State, focusing on how these conflicts influence agricultural production, food availability, and the livelihoods of local communities.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Farmer-herder conflicts in Riyom LGA have led to widespread destruction of farmlands, loss of livestock, and increased displacement of populations, all of which negatively affect food security in the area. Despite the critical nature of these conflicts, there is limited empirical research on their direct impact on food security in the region. The existing literature focuses mainly on the socio-political and security aspects of the conflicts, while the consequences for food production and access remain underexplored. This study seeks to fill this gap by investigating how farmer-herder conflicts in Riyom LGA have impacted food security, with a particular focus on agricultural productivity, market stability, and the long-term consequences for local communities’ food access.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
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To assess the impact of farmer-herder conflicts on agricultural productivity in Riyom LGA.
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To evaluate how conflicts between farmers and herders have affected food access and availability in the region.
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To identify the coping mechanisms employed by affected communities to ensure food security amidst conflicts.
1.4 Research Questions
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How have farmer-herder conflicts impacted agricultural productivity in Riyom LGA?
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What is the effect of these conflicts on food access and availability in the region?
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What coping mechanisms have local communities employed to maintain food security in the face of farmer-herder conflicts?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
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H₀: Farmer-herder conflicts have not significantly impacted food security in Riyom LGA.
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H₁: Farmer-herder conflicts have significantly reduced food security in Riyom LGA.
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H₂: Communities in Riyom LGA have developed effective coping mechanisms to ensure food security despite the conflicts.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it provides an in-depth investigation of the impact of farmer-herder conflicts on food security in Riyom LGA, a region that has been severely affected by these tensions. The findings will be valuable to policymakers, local governments, and humanitarian organizations in designing targeted interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of these conflicts on food security. The research will also contribute to the broader understanding of the relationship between conflict and food security, providing a basis for similar studies in other conflict-prone regions of Nigeria. Moreover, by identifying coping mechanisms, the study can offer practical recommendations for enhancing resilience and ensuring food security in conflict-affected areas.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is focused on the impact of farmer-herder conflicts on food security in Riyom LGA, Plateau State. The research will examine the effects of these conflicts on agricultural productivity, food availability, and community responses over the past five years. The study is limited to the rural areas of Riyom LGA and does not include urban centers or other regions affected by similar conflicts. Limitations include difficulties in accessing reliable data on agricultural outputs and food security indicators, as well as potential bias in self-reported data from affected communities.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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Farmer-Herder Conflicts: Violent clashes between farmers and herders, often resulting from disputes over land, water, and resources needed for agriculture and livestock grazing.
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Food Security: The availability, access, and stability of food supplies to meet the nutritional needs of individuals and communities.
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Agricultural Productivity: The output of agricultural activities, including crop yields and livestock production, which is affected by various factors such as climate, conflict, and resource availability.
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