As part of the steps to reduce the frequency of violent clashes between farmers and herders, the Bauchi State Government has revoked all land allocations in the Aliya and Yautare grazing reserves of the Darazo Local Government Area of the state.
The development follows growing tensions between farmers and herders in the area, which have led to the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of properties.
The disclosure was made by the Chairman of the Committee set up to mitigate the development, Deputy Governor of the state, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the government’s review of land activities in the reserves.
He explained that the recent de-reservation of parts of the forests was originally aimed at encouraging greater community participation in farming under the Darazo Ecological Project.
However, the government observed that the implementation of the allocations was fraught with irregularities, leading to the improper distribution of land.
This, according to him, resulted in the allocation of almost the entire grazing reserves, a situation that triggered disputes between farmers and pastoralists.
The Deputy Governor stated that, ‘After carefully studying the situation – including personal visits and discussions with the parties involved – Governor Bala Mohammed ordered the immediate revocation of all the allocations.’
He stressed that the decision was taken in the interest of peace, justice, and sustainable development.
The Deputy Governor further explained that even the hectares earlier approved by the Governor will be subjected to a fresh review to ensure transparency and proper land management.
Auwal Jatau also said that the decision was made due to irregularities in the allocation process, which led to conflicts between farmers and herders, resulting in the destruction of farmlands, loss of properties, and loss of lives.
He explained that the grazing reserves were designated in 1953 and gazetted in 1986; however, the allocation process was marred by irregularities, leading to the current crisis.
A high-powered committee was set up to investigate the crisis, and its findings and recommendations have been submitted to the government.
According to him, the government has decided to revoke all land allocations in the grazing reserves with immediate effect; however, farmers who have vested crops on the land will be allowed to evacuate their crops and harvests.
He further said that the government will review the allocation of 2,500 hectares in the grazing reserves and reallocate the land in line with due process.
The Deputy Governor reiterated that the present government is committed to resolving the crisis and ensuring peace and stability in the state.
He assured that the government will follow due process in allocating the land and ensure that the rights of all stakeholders are protected.
He stressed that ‘The Bauchi State Government has revoked all land allocations in the Darazo grazing reserves due to irregularities that led to conflicts between farmers and herders, and will review and reallocate 2,500 hectares in line with due process, allowing farmers with vested crops to evacuate them.’
He appealed to the people of Aliya, Yautare, and the entire Darazo Local Government Area to remain calm and cooperate with the government.
The Bauchi State Government stated that the revocation exercise is part of broader efforts to restore peace and promote harmonious coexistence between farmers and herders in the region.