FULANI HERDSMEN ATTACKS: ENUGU YOUNG FARMERS ASSOCIATION PROPOSES PROTECTION PLAN

The Enugu State Young Farmers Association (ENSYFA) has proposed a comprehensive plan to protect farmers’ rights in the face of increasing attacks by Fulani herdsmen.

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The proposal comes after a brutal attack on farmers in Mgbuji community, Isi Uzo LGA, which highlighted the growing threats to farmers’ safety, rights, and livelihoods.

According to Kenneth Eze, President of ENSYFA, “Farmers in Enugu State are facing unprecedented threats to their lives, livelihoods, and rights. We urge the government to take immediate action to protect our members and ensure their safety and security.”

Key Challenges Facing Farmers

1. Insecurity and Violence : Armed groups, allegedly herdsmen, have repeatedly attacked farming communities, resulting in deaths, injuries, and displacement.

2. Economic Losses : Frequent destruction of farms, crops, and property leads to significant economic setbacks for farmers and disrupts the state’s agricultural productivity.

3. Fear and Displacement : Constant threats and attacks have driven many farmers away from their lands, leaving farmland fallow and communities impoverished.

4. Lack of Legal and Social Protection : Farmers lack access to adequate legal recourse, social protection, and compensation mechanisms to recover from losses caused by these attacks.

Proposed Solutions

1. Establish Farm Security Task Forces : Comprising local vigilante groups, community leaders, and law enforcement to patrol farming areas.

2. Install Surveillance Systems : Drones and CCTV cameras in vulnerable farming communities to boost farmers’ confidence.

3. Legal Framework for Farmers’ Rights : A legislation bill recognizing farmers’ rights to protection, including the right to safety, compensation, and provision of financial or material compensation for damages.

4. Community Engagement and Conflict Resolution : Promote dialogue between farmers and herders through local peace-building committees to address grievances and reduce tensions.

“We plead with our Governor, the people’s Governor, Barr. Dr. Peter Mbah to ensure that the following are met:

1. Safety and security of farmers and farming communities.

2. Establishment of legal protections to safeguard farmers’ rights and livelihoods.

3. Provision of social protection programs for affected farmers and their families.

4. Promotion of sustainable agricultural development and food security in Enugu State.

We urge the Honourable Members of the House of Assembly to prioritize the adoption and implementation of these measures to safeguard the rights, lives, and livelihoods of farmers across the state,” Eze said.

The Enugu State Young Farmers Association is committed to advocating for the rights and interests of farmers in Enugu State and ensuring that their voices are heard.

Signed:

Kenneth Eze
President, Enugu State Young Farmers Association (ENSYFA)