President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has received advice from Francis Onabis, a Nigerian politician based abroad, on how to handle the ongoing crisis between herders and farmers in parts of the country. In an open letter made available to newsmen in Abuja, Onabis urged the president to tackle the root causes of the conflict, which he identified as competition, lack of proper grazing infrastructure, and failure to modernize animal husbandry practices.

Onabis noted that past administrations had attempted to establish ranching zones but were unsuccessful. He advised the president to phase out open grazing and instead create a legal framework for land use in the country.

To prevent further conflicts, Onabis recommended the establishment of local peace committees comprising farmers and herders to mediate on possible infractions on existing laws within ranching zones.

According to Onabis, the cattle herders-farmers crisis should not be allowed to become a time bomb. He commended the president for his courage in making resolute decisions and ensuring that the rights of both farmers and herders are respected.

Onabis’ advice comes as the president seeks to address the longstanding conflict between herders and farmers, which has led to loss of lives and property in several parts of the country.