Herders in Plateau State have raised alarm over an alleged rise in the use of insecticides and harmful chemicals by farmers, claiming these substances are being deliberately applied to farmlands to harm grazing livestock.
The concerns were voiced during a recent community dialogue organized by local peace-building groups, where herders alleged that some farmers intentionally use toxic chemicals on crops, causing serious illness or death to cattle that graze on the treated fields.
Describing the practice as a growing threat to peaceful coexistence, herder community leaders appealed to the Plateau State Government and security agencies to take urgent action.
They warned that failure to address the issue could escalate tensions between farming and herding communities.
The herders also called for the revival of traditional grazing routes and advocated for enhanced cooperation in resolving disputes. They emphasized the need for mutual respect and consistent dialogue to foster lasting peace.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Plateau State Government nor the Farmers’ Union has issued an official response to the allegations.