In a recent interview on Voice of the People TV, Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi spoke on the contentious issue of cattle ranching in southern Nigeria, highlighting the widespread resistance among southern states to federal government policies. He emphasized that attempts to implement ranching programs without local consent could exacerbate tensions between communities and herders.
According to him, “The southern states categorically refuse ranching by the federal government.” He noted that these states view government-led ranching initiatives as encroachments on their land and resources, fueling distrust and potential conflicts with both farmers and pastoralists.
Gumi explained that while the federal government advocates ranching as a means to reduce herder-farmer clashes, the approach must consider local realities and consent. Without collaboration and mutual understanding, such policies risk further polarization and resistance, undermining efforts to improve security and agricultural productivity.
The scholar stressed the importance of dialogue between the federal government, state authorities, and community leaders to find workable solutions that respect local autonomy. He argued that inclusive strategies, rather than top-down enforcement, are essential to preventing disputes that can escalate into violence.
Gumi further highlighted that addressing underlying causes of conflict—such as land disputes, resource scarcity, and historical grievances—is necessary to ensure sustainable peace. According to him, enforcing policies without engaging affected communities is unlikely to succeed and may worsen tensions.
His remarks underscore the delicate balance required in Nigeria’s federal system, where policies must accommodate regional perspectives while seeking to promote national development and security.
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