NIGERIA needs food security. Yet, its farming communities are under torment. This is a national paradox. In this context, the deadly attacks that recently took place in Edo State and claimed 24 lives are a pointer to the insensate violence that continues to spread across the country, particularly in farming communities.

Therefore, state governments should stop depending on the Federal Government for security. They should take decisive steps to end this recurring mayhem.
The spate of insecurity in farming communities has been one of the major causes of food insecurity in Nigeria.

In January, suspected armed herders killed about 19 people in renewed attacks on some communities in the Kwande LGA of Benue State.
That same month, nine farmers were killed by bandits in Kagara, in the Shiroro LGA of Niger State. Six individuals were kidnapped, and numerous cattle were stolen. Earlier in the month, in the Wushishi and Rafi LGAs of Niger, two persons were shot dead and 10 kidnapped.
Similarly, in January, at least 40 farmers were killed in an attack by extremists from the Boko Haram group and its breakaway faction that is loyal to the Islamic State in Borno’s Dumba community.

Insecurity remains a major threat to agricultural productivity in Nigeria and must be adequately tackled.
At 24.9 per cent, agriculture contributes the largest share of Nigeria’s GDP, but many citizens are hungry. A joint report by the NBS and its multilateral partners estimated multidimensionally poor citizens at 133 million in 2022, before the removal of petrol subsidies and floatation of the naira.

Beyond condemning attacks on farming communities and mouthing rhetoric, governors should deploy security personnel to the affected areas.

Local vigilance groups like Amotekun should be established to end the wave of violence in farming communities. Crime is local and should be dealt with at the community level.

The federal and state governments need to restore the backbone of the economy through the establishment of devolved policing.

BY

TOPE ODETAYO
CEO, SUCCESS 105.3 FM
IBADAN.