The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has revealed that the state records as many as 100 incidents of farmers–herders clashes every month.

This disclosure was made by the command’s spokesperson, Mr Samuel Opebiyi, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Ibadan. He explained that the recurring conflicts are largely driven by issues such as cattle grazing on farmlands, cases of livestock poisoning, and other related disagreements between the two groups.

Opebiyi noted that the NSCDC’s Agro-Rangers unit has made significant progress in preventing these disputes from developing into major security threats. According to him, many of the clashes have been peacefully settled through the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, which promote dialogue and mutual understanding.

He emphasised that sustainable food security cannot be achieved without harmony between farmers and herders, stressing that the corps is committed to creating a safe environment that allows both groups to carry out their activities without conflict.

The spokesperson further explained that security challenges vary across different parts of the state, pointing out that farmers–herders clashes are more prevalent in areas such as Oluyole, Oke-Ogun and the Ibarapa axis.

While acknowledging that limited manpower has hindered the deployment of Agro-Rangers to some communities, Opebiyi said steps are being taken to strengthen the unit. He added that the presence of Agro-Rangers in several parts of Oyo State has contributed to a reduction in farmers–herders clashes and other related criminal activities.