Background of the Study:
Land disputes between herders and farmers have become a major source of conflict in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in regions like Dutsin-Ma in Katsina State. These conflicts are often rooted in competition for land and water resources, as well as the differing ways in which herders and farmers use the land. While herders typically need access to grazing land for their livestock, farmers require land for cultivation. This competition has led to violence, displacement, and loss of lives, making it crucial to examine the rights of both herders and farmers in the context of land dispute resolution (Suleiman & Lawal, 2024).
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to property and livelihood, yet the failure to resolve land disputes effectively often leads to the violation of these rights. Traditional and formal legal systems in Dutsin-Ma have been involved in attempting to mediate these conflicts, but the effectiveness of these systems remains questionable. This study will investigate the rights of herders and farmers in land disputes and explore how these conflicts can be resolved through legal and traditional means.
Statement of the Problem:
In Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, herders and farmers continue to experience disputes over land use, leading to violent clashes and violations of their rights. Despite the existence of laws to govern land use and dispute resolution, these conflicts persist, largely due to inadequate enforcement, lack of effective mediation, and the complex nature of land rights in rural areas. The study aims to investigate how the rights of herders and farmers are protected in the resolution of land disputes and to explore strategies for addressing these conflicts in a manner that respects the rights of both parties.
Objectives of the Study:
To examine the rights of herders and farmers in resolving land disputes in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.
To assess the effectiveness of legal and traditional mechanisms in resolving land disputes between herders and farmers.
To recommend strategies for improving the resolution of land disputes in Dutsin-Ma while protecting the rights of both herders and farmers.
Research Questions:
What are the rights of herders and farmers in land dispute resolution in Dutsin-Ma?
How effective are legal and traditional mechanisms in resolving land disputes between herders and farmers in Dutsin-Ma?
What strategies can be implemented to improve the resolution of land disputes while ensuring the protection of the rights of herders and farmers in Dutsin-Ma?
Research Hypotheses:
There are significant differences in the rights of herders and farmers in land dispute resolution in Dutsin-Ma.
Legal and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have varying levels of effectiveness in resolving land conflicts in Dutsin-Ma.
Implementing strategies that promote equitable land distribution and conflict mediation will improve the resolution of land disputes in Dutsin-Ma.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study will focus on land disputes between herders and farmers in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, and explore both legal and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms. Data will be collected from interviews with herders, farmers, legal professionals, and community leaders. Limitations may include challenges in accessing participants due to the sensitive nature of land disputes or reluctance to discuss personal experiences due to fear of reprisal.
Definitions of Terms:
Land Disputes: Conflicts arising from disagreements over the use, ownership, or control of land.
Herders: Individuals who raise and manage livestock, typically requiring large tracts of land for grazing.
Farmers: Individuals who cultivate land for agricultural production and rely on land for their livelihoods.
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