Title: Farmers-Herders Conflict and its Effect on Food Security: A Study of Cooperative Households in Anambra State
Authors: Ojiagu Nkechi, C. and Ajubiga Lovelyn, C.
Volume: 8
Issue: 8
Pages: 107-116
Publication Date: 2024/08/28
Abstract:
The rising conflict between farmers and herders, which continues to result in the loss of lives and property and poses an ongoing threat to food security, prompted this study to investigate the effect of the farmers-herders conflict on the food security of cooperative member households in Anambra State. Specifically, the study aimed to assess the effect of land commodification on food utilization. A survey research design was utilized, with the population comprising 308 farmers and herders who are members of agricultural cooperative societies and the Cattle Breeders Association, consisting of 208 cooperative members and 100 herders. Complete enumeration was employed, and data were collected using a questionnaire, which was tested for both validity and reliability. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated a statistically significant effect of land commodification on food utilization (Herders: R = .938; Rē = .880; F-statistic = 647.244; t-statistic = 25.441; p-value = .000 < 0.05; Farmers: R = .948; Rē = .890; F-statistic = 1305.621; t-statistic = 36.133; p-value = .000 < 0.05). Based on these findings, it was concluded that the farmers-herders conflict significantly affects the food security of cooperative member households in Anambra State. Consequently, it was recommended that legislation be enacted to regulate the commodification of land, ensuring that some land is preserved for grazing and pastoral purposes, especially in areas where open grazing is still permitted.