A HISTORY OF FARMER-HERDER CRISIS IN IGANGAN TOWN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA, 1973-2021

Abstract

Escalating conflicts between farmers and herders continue to threaten political stability and wellbeing in various part of Nigeria. This tension continues to spread to Southwestern Nigeria and this study examines Igangan Town in Oyo State. The community welcomed Fulani herders in the 1970s and coexistence until this deteriorated into violent clashes which resulted in significant losses of lives, livelihoods, and property. This study examines the interplay between migration, communal solidarity, and peace enforcement in the context of the Igangan farmer-herder crisis. The study integrates primary data from oral interviews (conducted with Igangan community leaders, residents, farmers, and traders) and secondary data from textbooks, journals, etc. Findings reveal that the conflict’s resolution stemmed not from state government efforts, but from the radical agency of the Igangan community itself and this highlights communal solidarity as pivotal to enforcing lasting peace.