An Empirical Phenomenological Psychological Study of Farmer-herdsmen Conflicts in North-Central Nigeria

Importunate farmer-herdsmen conflicts in Nigeria portendserious socioeconomic consequences. Using the EmpiricalPhenomenological Psychological approach (EPP-approach), the study isa qualitative analysis of farmer-herdsmen conflicts. Research sampleconsisted of thirty farmers and twelve herdsmen, selected using a multistage cluster random sampling technique. Hermeneutic interviewtechnique was used to elicit data from respondents. Data analysisrevealed twenty-two categories, which resulted in four themes namely:causes of conflict, experiences, coping responses, and managementperspectives. Although there was no consensus on the causes of conflicts, inadequate knowledge of stock routes, depleting soil fertility, and the need to increase scale of operation by both groups increased the potential for conflicts. Both groups exhibited differing conflict experiences and responses, but exhibited willingness to find lasting solution to the conflicts. Major recommendations include increased awareness, compliance and periodic revision of stock routes; and better coping mechanisms among both parties. It is also imperative to set up farmerherdsmenconflict management at community, local, state, and federalgovernment levels.