Gombe committee moves to prevent farmers/herders clashes during harvest

As the harvest of farm products begins this month, a call has been made for the restrictions of movement of cattle by herders from one point to the other across the 11 LGAs of Gombe State to avoid clashes between herders and farmers during the period.

The call was made by the Gombe State Farmers / Herders Conflict Prevention and Dispute Settlement Committee while addressing Journalists over the weekend.

The Committee therefore called for the establishment of joint security operations teams in all the Eleven local government areas of the state to ensure security for herders at the various entry points.

The Committee expressed optimism that the establishment of joint security patrol teams would prevent movement restrictions of herders within and outside the state till January 2025  to ensure a peaceful and productive harvest season in the state.

The State Chairman of the Committee, Dr Barnabas Malle while addressing Newsmen emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the state, hence, the need for the establishment of joint patrol teams in the affected areas.

According to him, the administration of the State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya is committed to maintaining peace and stability, especially during the harvest period in the state.

Barnabas Malle who serves as Commissioner for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperative, warned farmers against harvesting or transporting products from 6 pm to 6 am for their safety.

He also warned herders against night grazing or entrusting livestock to underaged children, stressing that any person found violating the rules would face the wrath of the law.

He solicited the support of traditional rulers in disseminating the information to reach the targeted audience to ensure successful harvest.

Some of the stakeholders at the meeting include, Alhaji Modibbo Yaya and the District Head of Nasarawo, expressed their support for the Committee and commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for taking steps in constituting the committee aimed at ensuring peace, especially at grassroots levels.