CAN urges Taraba farmers, herders to embrace peace ahead of farming season
Christian Association Urges Peaceful Coexistence Ahead of Farming Season in Taraba
LAU, Taraba State — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Lau Local Government Council has called for peaceful relations between farmers and herders as the 2026 rainy season approaches. The association cautioned that renewed agricultural activities could intensify conflicts without careful management.
In a statement released Saturday, Pastor Zephaniah John, the CAN Coordinator for Lau, encouraged both groups to avoid actions that may spark discord as they return to their respective fields and grazing areas. He emphasized that peaceful coexistence is vital for the survival of agrarian communities, arguing that “the farmer needs peace to cultivate, and the herder needs peace to rear livestock.” He condemned violence as detrimental to both professions.
The association commended Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration for establishing the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, viewing it as a proactive measure to address insecurity and local disputes. CAN also praised the appointment of local representatives to key advisory and peacebuilding roles within the state.
Further, CAN urged farmers to refrain from encroaching on established grazing routes and water points, recommending that any disputes be reported to traditional rulers, the Ardo, or security agencies rather than seeking self-help solutions. Herders were similarly advised to respect farmland boundaries, avoid grazing at night, and provide compensation for any crop damage.
The association called on religious and community leaders, including those from Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Miyetti Allah, and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, to amplify messages of peace and to discourage inflammatory language.
CAN also acknowledged the efforts of security agencies, including Operation Whirl Stroke, in maintaining stability in the region. The association called for increased patrols in identified hotspots such as Jauro Bakari, Kunini, Doubeli Lavoro, and the Mayo-Lope axis to prevent potential outbreaks of violence.
Lastly, the Christian Association urged the Taraba State Government and Lau Local Government Council to arrange a peace dialogue between farmers and herders prior to the peak farming activities, with the aim of setting clearer engagement rules for the upcoming season.
