From Grazing to Grieving: How Herders-Farmers Clashes Fuel Food Insecurity in South-East Nigeria

Abstract

The paper presents the effect of clashes between herders and farmers to food insecurity in South-East Nigeria, based on two dimensions of food security namely food availability and food accessibility. These violent confrontations disrupt farming activities, causing farmers to abandon their lands or hinder crop cultivation, thereby reducing available food resources. Additionally, the paper explores how climate change amplifies resource competition, leading to more frequent and intense conflicts over land and water. The migration of pastoralists, particularly from the Sahel region, further complicates the situation and intensifies food insecurity. Using theoretical frameworks like eco-violence and frustration-aggression, the paper highlights the nexus between ecological pressures, resource scarcity, and violent conflict. Moreover, these clashes hinder food accessibility by driving up food prices and disrupting trade and distribution channels. In response, the study recommends that the federal government implement climate change mitigation strategies, such as afforestation initiatives under the Great Green Wall, and promote cattle domestication through the enforcement of anti-open grazing laws and the establishment of ranches. Peaceful coexistence through education and local association with traditional institutions is also needed and should be nurtured as much as possible. These integrated policy interventions are essential to address the root causes of the conflict and mitigate its effects on food security in South-East Nigeria.