Bauchi Gov Warns Against Illegal Conversion Of Grazing Land To Farmlands

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has warned officials of the state Ministry of Lands and Survey, Darazo Local Government as well as traditional leaders against allocating government-designated grazing lands for farming activities.

Governor Mohammed gave the warning during a peace dialogue held in Nahutan Village in Darazo local government area on Sunday, following recent violent clashes between farmers and herders.

The governor expressed deep concern over the growing tension over land use, particularly the conversion of grazing areas into farmlands.

He noted that such actions have escalated longstanding conflicts between the two groups.

Governor Mohammed explained that Darazo, despite being one of the major agricultural hubs in the Bauchi Central, is currently grappling with unpredictable weather, and rising insecurity.

According to the governor, over the past two years, about 2,500 hectares each were allocated from the forests of Alia, Sade, and Yautari in Darazo to support increased demand for farmland.

However, Fulani herders have viewed the move as an infringement on their traditional grazing routes and settlements, deepening existing tensions and mistrust.

“These forests have long served as peaceful grazing areas for herders. Unfortunately, due to population growth and improper land allocations, this balance has been disrupted,” the governor lamented.

He acknowledged Darazo’s growing population and its emergence as a rapidly expanding town in North Central Bauchi, but said this growth must be managed to prevent further decline in agricultural productivity.

In response to the misunderstanding, the governor has set up a high-level committee comprising land officials, traditional rulers, and security personnel to review all land allocations, clearly demarcate boundaries, protect grazing reserves and cattle routes, and ensure accountability and transparency in the process.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to misuse land intended for multiple purposes. We must restore order through fairness, transparency, and inclusive dialogue,” Governor Mohammed said.

He emphasised that both farmers and herders are integral to the state’s economy and must be treated with fairness and respect.

Speaking for the Fulani community, Malam Bala Darazo, said lack of accessible grazing land has become a serious issue for herders, urging the state government to design special land for grazing.

For his part, leader of the farming community, Imrana Muhammad Lawal alleged that herders were invading farmlands, assaulting farmers, and destroying their property.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, CP Sani Omolori Aliyu, recalled that he convened a strategic meeting with key stakeholders at the onset of the rainy season to proactively address the recurring clashes between farmers and herders across the state.

He assured residents of Darazo that security agencies would intensify their efforts, enforce existing agreements, and collaborate closely with all parties to restore peace and ensure lasting security in the area.