Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The issue of Fulani herdsmen attacks in Nigeria, particularly in Benue State, has been a significant challenge with far-reaching implications for the socio-political development of the country. This research aims to investigate the impact of Fulani herdsmen attacks on the socio-political landscape of Nigeria, using Benue State as a case study. The study explores the historical context of the conflict, the underlying causes, and the implications for governance, security, and inter-ethnic relations in the region. Through a mixed-methods approach, including interviews, surveys, and analysis of secondary data, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of Fulani herdsmen attacks in Benue State. The findings reveal that the conflict is rooted in a complex interplay of factors, including competition for resources, historical grievances, ineffective governance structures, and ethno-religious dynamics. The lack of a coherent national response to the issue has exacerbated tensions and deepened divisions within the country. The study also examines the responses of various stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations, in addressing the challenges posed by Fulani herdsmen attacks. It highlights the need for a holistic and inclusive approach that takes into account the interests of all parties involved and addresses the underlying causes of the conflict. The findings underscore the importance of effective conflict resolution mechanisms, improved security measures, and sustainable development initiatives to promote peace and stability in the region. Furthermore, the research explores the implications of Fulani herdsmen attacks on the socio-political development of Nigeria, with a focus on governance, human rights, and economic development. It argues that the persistence of the conflict undermines efforts to build a cohesive and inclusive society, hinders economic growth, and erodes trust in government institutions. The study calls for a multi-dimensional approach that combines security measures with long-term strategies for conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and reconciliation. In conclusion, the research contributes to the existing literature on Fulani herdsmen attacks in Nigeria by providing a nuanced analysis of the socio-political implications of the conflict, particularly in Benue State. It offers insights into the complex nature of the issue and proposes recommendations for policymakers, civil society actors, and other stakeholders to address the challenges posed by Fulani herdsmen attacks and advance the socio-political development of the country.

Thesis Overview

1.1 Background to the Study

The Fula people also known as Fulani in Hausa language, are a mass population widely dispersed and culturally diverse in all of Africa, but most predominant in West Africa. The Fulani’s generally speak the Fula language. A significant number of them are nomadic in nature, herding cattle, goats and sheep across the vast dry grass lands of their environment, keeping isolate from the local farming communities, making them the world’s largest pastoral nomadic group (Eyekpimi, 2016). They are massively spread over many countries, and are found mainly in West Africa and northern parts of Central Africa, but also in Sudan and Egypt. The main Fulani sub-groups in Nigeria are: Fulbe Adamawa, Fulbe Mbororo, Fulbe Sokoto, Fulbe Gombe, and the Fulbe Borgu (Eyekpimi, 2016).

Nigeria as a nation state is under a severe internal socio-economic and security threat. At a more general level, the threat has special economic, political and environmental dimensions. Each of these dimensions has greatly affected the nation’s stability and can be traced to the Fulani-herdsmen and farmers clash, ethnic militant armies, ethnic and religious conflicts, poverty, insurgency, armed robbery, corruption, economic sabotage and environmental degradation (Damba, 2007).