Oracle of Wisdom Journal of Philosophy and Public Affairs

This paper investigates herders-farmers conflict in Nigerian society. The research intends to show how some contemporary Nigerians have lost their lives, and properties as a result of the said conflict, and why the Nigerian legislature, and the traditional religious leaders, should contribute significantly to the efforts to adequately manage herders-farmers conflict in Nigeria. Methodologically, this study generated data through the secondary source, thus, books, journal articles, internet materials, etc., that are relevant to the subject under discussion were consulted. Data were analyzed using the phenomenological and the sociological methods. Two (2) theoretical models were adopted as framework in which this study is built upon. They are: the structural conflict and the economic theories. The findings reveal that arms proliferation, kidnapping, banditry, etc., have become rampant in Nigeria, especially, in North Central, Northwest, and the Middle Belt, in recent times. The discussion further indicates that some Nigerians (the perpetrators) are benefiting from these unwholesome acts to the detriment of fellow Nigerians. This poses a threat to sustainable development in Nigeria. Therefore, contemporary Nigerian legislature, and the traditional religious leaders such as the medicine men, diviners, etc., who are the custodians of the law, and traditional religious values, respectively, in Nigeria, must be committed to their duties. This study intends to contribute to existing knowledge by creating awareness on the negative impact of herders-farmers conflict in Nigeria, today.

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