Cleric seeks lasting solution to Herders/Farmers Crisis in Nigeria
Posted by Ahmed Iyanda | 3 years ago | 785 times
Islamic scholar, Sheikh Abdul-Rauf Omoola has suggested ways to address the lingering violence between Herders/Farmers conflict in Nigeria.
He disclosed this at the 2021 Pre-Ramadan Public Lecture organized by Nasrul-lahi-il-Fatih(NASFAT) society, Ifo Branch, recently, at its permanent site, Sola town, Jambu-Coker Road Akinsinde, Ifo.
Speaking on the theme: "Islamic Point of view on conflict between Headers and Farmers," the cleric dissected the historical context of the crisis and recommended solutions that ranged from the creation of new grazing resolves, justice to one another, embracing peaceful co-existence amongst people, irrespective of the culture, religion and tribe.
According to Omoola, Clashes between different groups of Fulani herders and farmers have killed thousands of people in Nigeria in the past years. Fulani herders travel hundreds of miles in large numbers with their cattle in search of essential resources such as farmland, grazing areas and water, they are often armed with weapons to protect their livestock. These have led to the regular accusation of Fulani cattle's destroying the growing annual crops of the farmers as they travel across in search for grazing resources.
The cleric noted regrettably that, insecurity is on the rise and this is as a result of exhibiting bad character, injustice in the society.
Citing the Holy Quran, Omoola said "Allah has forbidden us to fight one another, we should always embrace peace, exhibit good moral behaviour before, during and after the month of Ramadan.
"Indeed Allah decrees the commands of justice and kindness, and of giving to relatives, and forbids from the shameful and evil and rebellion; He advises you so that you may pay heed."
He appealed to Nigerians and Muslims in general to imbibe the value of peaceful co-existence and pray for continued peace in the nation.
He noted that the promotion of peace among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in the country was critical to national development.
According to him, since Islam preaches the message of peace and tolerance, every Nigerian should begin to embrace brotherly love and harmonious co-existence.
