Farmer-Herder Conflicts and Agricultural Productivity in Kogi State, Nigeria, 2015-2024

Mbaeze, Netchy Christian (2025) Farmer-Herder Conflicts and Agricultural Productivity in Kogi State, Nigeria, 2015-2024. International Journal of Modern Political Economy, 16 (1). pp. 87-141. ISSN 2250-9151

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Abstract

Abstract Farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria have escalated into one of the most severe rural security challenges, with fatalities in some years comparable to those of organized insurgencies. In 2016 alone, approximately 2,500 deaths were recorded nationwide, while over 300 fatalities occurred in the first quarter of 2018, underscoring the intensity of the crisis. This study examined the impact of farmerherder conflicts on agricultural productivity in Omala Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State between 2015 and 2025. The specific focus was on how internal displacement of farmers undermines crop production, how loss of lives and property contributes to declining livestock production, and how competition over land and water resources constrains aquatic agricultural activities. The study is anchored on the Eco-violence theory, which explains how environmental scarcity and resource competition generate violent conflict and undermine livelihoods. A survey research design was adopted, drawing data from both primary and secondary sources. Data were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative descriptive methods. Findings indicate that persistent farmer displacement has significantly reduced active cultivation, while repeated attacks on rural households have weakened livestock production systems. Furthermore, intensified competition over land and water resources has negatively affected aquatic and irrigationbased agricultural activities. The study concludes that farmer– herder conflicts have severely undermined agricultural productivity and rural livelihood sustainability in Omala LGA. Policy recommendations are directed toward strengthening rural security, promoting sustainable grazing systems, and improving conflict resolution mechanisms. Keywords: Farmer-herder conflict, agricultural productivity, internal displacement, Omala LGA, food security.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	J Political Science > JC Political theory
Divisions:	Faculty of Management and Social Sciences
Depositing User:	miss Rita Enih
Date Deposited:	04 May 2026 11:20
Last Modified:	04 May 2026 11:20
URI:	http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5639

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