The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a farmer-herder committee
to address clashes between farmers and herders across the state.
Speaking during the inauguration in Port Harcourt on Thursday, the
Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Ibibia Worika, explained that
though agriculture remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, conflicts
within the sector, especially among farmers and herders, had resulted in
loss of lives, displacement, and disruption of economic activities.
Worika, who is also the chairman of the committee, said that the
Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, was
determined to prevent such occurrences in fostering dialogue, promoting
justice, and ensuring a peaceful coexistence.
The SSG further noted that the composition of the committee reflected the
inclusive and inter-sectoral approach of the government, drawing
membership from the traditional institution, security agencies, farmers’
associations, herders’ representatives, civil society groups, and relevant
ministries such as agriculture, local government, and justice.
Worika stressed that the committee was expected to act with wisdom,
fairness, and diligence.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as the
Secretary of the committee.
