Implementation of open grasing prohibition policy and management of farmers/herdsmen conflict in Ebonyi state: Troubles and solutions

Abstract

This study examined the issues confronting how implementation of open grasing prohibition policy affects the management of farmers/herdsmen conflict in Ebonyi state. The study adopted cross sectional and explorative research design using questionnaire (140) and Key Informant Interviews with farmers and herdsmen as participants. Anchored on Frustration-Anger-Aggression theory, the study identified some issues as reasons for the escalation of the conflict and its effect on social economic development of the people. While the state government strategies in managing the conflict was applauded by theboth parties, implementing the open grasing prohibition policy of the state government was challenged by allegations of partiality, violence and reprisal attack and poor attendance of the herdsmen to peace committee dialogue meetings. To manage the situation, the study recommended that there is the need to expand the composition of the arbitration team to include representative of other associations, interest groups and institutions to be able to determine adequate compensation value for damages done to both parties. Again, the herdsmen should be restricted to grasing at a designated area with, adequate notice of meeting been provided for the herdsmen to enable them regularly attend meeting of peace committee to be able to know the decisions of government.