Application of Conflict Wheel Model in the Analysis of Farmers-Herders Conflict in Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examines the causal factors of the lingering conflict between farmers-herders in the Adamawa. Specifically, it emphasizes issues, dynamics, context, causalities and exit options. The application of the conflict wheel theory suggests, the negative consequences of desertification and decline in ecological resources has in this case informed an unhealthy competition for access to mutual ecological resources between farmers-herders as one of the factors that brought about the deadly conflict. Further analysis reveals the context which has consistently increased in scope, cannot be divorced from existential socio-economic, political, and cultural realities of the Nigerian state. While Causalities seem to be multidimensional encompassing, conflict between two production systems, government inactivity and pre-existing security challenges in the region amongst others discussed. Given the central role of the state in enforcing law and social stability, it is imperative that government at various levels review pre-existing strategies and adopt robust and inclusive strategies. Similarly, the importance of counter desertification and conservative policies cannot be downplayed, and climate conscious pastoral and herding initiatives will also go a long way in averting future ecological resource-based conflicts.