The banning of open grazing debate in Nigeria has almost a week sparked a contentious discussion among various stakeholders in the country. With the increasing conflicts between farmers and herders, as well as the rise in insecurity and destruction of farmlands, the issue of open grazing has become a pressing concern for many Nigerians.
The recent decision by some state governments to ban open grazing has further fueled this debate, with some supporting the move as a necessary step towards addressing these issues, while others view it as an infringement on traditional practices.
The passionate debate over the grazing bill exposes the multifaceted nature of the farmer-herder conflict in Nigeria. The discovery of cattle grazing as a cause of deadly violence in Nigeria reveals serious issues concerning land conflicts and their impact on both farmers and herders in the whole parts of the country and the bordering communities. That said, governments of some states, like Benue and Taraba, that recently introduced new laws prohibiting open grazing, should exercise restraint in enforcing such laws, and encourage a phased transition to ranching.
The ban on open grazing is seen by many of us as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to prioritize patriotism and unity in finding sustainable solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria. It calls for a shift from individual interests to collective responsibility in ensuring peace and security for all citizens. This debate goes beyond just economic considerations but touches on issues of identity, land rights, and cultural practices that have shaped Nigerian society for generations.
Sen. Titus Zam's motion on the bill and arguments persuaded fellow legislators to see the benefits of a legislative ban on open grazing in Nigeria in effectively addressing the crises faced by farmers and herders. But this would be inserting ethnic and cultural nationality issues of their own that would heighten the fervor with which Nigerian Federalism would be discussed and ultimately re-strategized to account for the here and nowness of the issues.
As we delve deeper into this complex and sensitive issue, all stakeholders need to keep aside partisanship and approach the issue with an open mind and a commitment to finding common ground for the betterment of our nation. All stakeholders must engage in meaningful dialogue and wider consultation to find a balanced and acceptable solution that takes into account the interests of Nigerian citizens.