CDS Musa Stokes Controversy with Statement that Animals, Not Herders Encroach on Farmlands

Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has sparked controversy by stating that the so-called “farmers-herders clash” is a misconception, arguing that it’s actually the animals that encroach on farmlands, rather than a conflict between two groups.

According to Musa, the root causes of the violence in Benue State and other parts of the country are land disputes between indigenes and non-indigenes, animal movement, and rustling.

Musa emphasized that these issues require political solutions, rather than military intervention. He noted that the movement of animals is a significant contributor to the conflicts, and that addressing this issue would help mitigate the violence.

The CDS also highlighted the need to tackle animal rustling, which often leads to retaliatory attacks.

The comments come amid renewed outrage over a recent attack in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 200 people were reportedly burnt alive.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and reactions across the country.

Musa’s assertion that the conflict is not a clash between farmers and herders, but rather an issue of animal encroachment, has sparked debate about the complexities of the conflict. While some argue that the issue is more nuanced, others believe that the CDS’s perspective oversimplifies the problem.

The Nigerian government is under pressure to address the underlying causes of the conflict and provide adequate support to affected communities.

As the situation continues to unfold, stakeholders are calling for a comprehensive approach to resolving the crisis and ensuring the safety of lives and property.