No abstract

In recent times, the occurrence of conflicts between herders and farmers with unexplainable attacks by the Fulani herdsmen in Nigerian states has become worrisome; threatening the unity and security of the country with the fear of war and ethnic invasion. Governmental attempts to proffer solutions have not helped matters. Affected parties have rejected proposed policies, including cattle colonies, cattle routes, grazing reserves, and Rural Grazing Area (RUGA) settlements. Findings revealed that the reasons for rejections and counter reactions against policies are related to the fear of ethnic domination and suspicion among Nigerian stakeholders. This work affirms that the RUGA is a policy formulated amidst perceived and overwhelming ethnic prejudice. It concludes that there is need for collective and inclusive policy formulation and implementation that recognizes collective effort with a modern political economy policy for sustainable development.

Payment and distribution of oil compensation as a benefit for oil exploration impact has often resulted in communal conflicts between and within oil producing communities of Ilaje coastal area of Ondo State, Nigeria. This study examined local politics and conflict inherent in oil compensation agitation and distribution in relevant communities. It synthesized Joseph prebendalism theory and Mills’ elite theory as its theoretical base with specific emphasis on the local politics on agitation, negotiation and distribution of oil compensation. Thirteen communities were purposively selected from the coastal communities. Qualitative data collection methods were mainly employed for this research. These included In-depth interviews with traditional leaders, Focus Group Discussions among community youth leaders and Key Informant Interviews were done amongst community representatives. Data collection was complemented with a community survey to capture the views of community members. Increase in conflict and agitation for oil compensation in oil producing communities arose from differentials in oil compensation categories in the study area which deepened oil politics and conflicts arising from the prebendal roles of the elites and traditional rulers. The work suggested more proactive measures for restructuring oil compensation payment and distribution.