Breaking: Rivers State Declares War On Clashes – Peace Committee Launched To Tame Herders’ Crisis

The Rivers State Government, under the leadership of Sole Administrator Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has established a Farmer-Herder Conflict Resolution Committee aimed at curbing the growing spate of clashes between agricultural and pastoral communities across the state.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Unveiled Thursday in Port Harcourt, the initiative was hailed as a proactive step to reduce tensions and encourage peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders who depend on land and livestock for their livelihoods.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibibia Worika—who also chairs the committee—emphasized the administration’s commitment to preventing the kind of disputes that have previously resulted in fatalities, displacement, and economic losses.

“Agriculture is a pillar of Nigeria’s economy, but escalating farmer-herder conflicts are threatening this vital sector,” Worika said.

He noted that the new committee forms part of Governor Ibas’ broader strategy to foster dialogue, uphold justice, and create lasting peace. Its mandate includes identifying early warning signs, mediating disputes through non-violent, community-driven approaches, and ensuring that both grazing and farming are carried out in line with environmental and legal guidelines.

Additionally, the committee will provide policy advice on land usage, pasture development, and water management, while leading awareness campaigns to promote peaceful coexistence.

Worika highlighted that the committee’s members were carefully selected from a wide range of stakeholders—traditional leaders, security agencies, farmers’ and herders’ groups, civil society organizations, and key ministries such as Agriculture, Justice, and Local Government.

“This multi-sectoral composition reflects the seriousness with which we are addressing this challenge,” he stated.

He urged members to approach their duties with impartiality and dedication, stressing that beyond resolving disputes, the goal is to build bridges of trust among diverse communities.

“Our mission goes beyond conflict prevention—it’s about cultivating trust and long-term partnerships that sustain both our economy and peace,” he added.

The committee’s coordination will be overseen by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, who will serve as its secretary.

The move comes as Nigeria faces rising concerns over the impact of farmer-herder conflicts, which continue to undermine food security and social harmony in many regions.

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