A peace deal between Fulani herders and farmers in Gamboru Ngala town in the central part of Borno State has been mediated by Governor Babagana Zulum.
The peace deal, which came after weeks of anxiety and unrest, was achieved during a peace meeting organised by Governor Zulum on Monday.
Zulum praised all parties for agreeing to the deal during the meeting and advised people to avoid all actions that could spark violence.
“Borno is a state with agrarian communities. We have Fulanis, we have Shuwas, and we have Kanuris who are nomads as well. We have the same culture and the same tradition. Therefore, I urge all the people of Borno to be law-abiding and to ensure they live in peace with one another,” Zulum restated.
The governor also promised that the state government is taking all essential steps to stop clashes between Fulani herders and farmers in Borno.
The meeting was attended by representatives of Fulani herders and the farming community, as well as the senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan, a House of Representative member, Bukwr Talba, the Local Government Council Chairman, a House of Assembly member representing Ngala, and traditional and community leaders.
Governor Zulum also declared the formation of a committee to examine the causes of conflicts between farmers and herders in Borno State.
The governor made the declaration in Gamboru town on Monday while speaking to the press.
“Let me use this opportunity to declare a committee that will examine the farmers and herders conflicts in all 27 Local Government Areas of Borno State,” said Zulum.
The committee among other issues will re-establish the defunct cattle routes and identify grazing reserves which have not been sufficiently used.
He stressed that the committee’s recommendations will help the government in tackling the root causes that lead to conflicts between farmers and herders.
The committee which will be led by Tijjani Guzamala, Special Adviser designate, includes representatives from the Nigeria Police, DSS, all emirate councils, Miyetti Allah, Alhaya Association and the Governor’s Office.