News in brief:
– The state government has appointed Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, following recommendations by the Oyomesi council.
– His role is expected to promote peace, particularly between farmers and herders, which is vital for improving agricultural productivity and food security.
The state government has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. In a statement by the Information Commission, the Oyomesi, an advisory council, recommended the new traditional ruler after consultations and divinations.
This appointment is expected to settle the misunderstanding between different factions over the leadership position since the passing of the former ruler, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III.
Prince Owoade, a Nigerian-Canadian businessman, will take over the traditional role that involves settling internal disputes among other things. This particular duty is critical because traditional rulers have become key to maintaining peace between farmers and herders.
Peace between herders and farmers is crucial for improving agricultural productivity because it fosters a stable and collaborative environment where both groups can thrive. Here are some specific ways this peace contributes to productivity:
1. Reduced Conflicts and Disruptions
Conflicts between herders and farmers often destroy crops, livestock, and infrastructure. Peace reduces these disruptions, allowing both farming and herding activities to continue without interruption.
2. Efficient Land Use
With peace, herders and farmers can agree on land-sharing arrangements, such as designated grazing routes or rotational land use. This minimises encroachment on farmlands and overgrazing, ensuring better soil health and productivity.
3. Improved Access to Resources
In conflict zones, access to water, pasture, and markets is often restricted. Peace enables both groups to share resources like water bodies and grazing lands, ensuring better resource utilisation and reduced scarcity.
4. Enhanced Collaboration
Peace creates opportunities for collaboration, such as manure exchange (from herders) for crop residues (from farmers). This symbiotic relationship enhances soil fertility and provides feed for livestock, benefiting both parties.
5. Increased Investments
Stability attracts government and private investments in agriculture, such as irrigation systems, veterinary services, and infrastructure. These investments improve overall productivity.
6. Knowledge and Innovation Sharing
In peaceful settings, herders and farmers can share traditional knowledge and innovative practices. For example, farmers can learn about integrating livestock into crop systems, while herders can learn about forage cultivation.
7. Food Security
Peace ensures consistent food production and livestock supply, reducing losses due to conflicts. This contributes to food security at local and national levels.
The state has experienced several herders and farmers clashes including a deadly one in August 2024 that left 10 people dead. Federal, state and traditional administrations are working together around the country to ensure peaceful coexistence between pastoralists and food producers.
