Ex-foreign affairs minister links banditry to land use imbalance

The immediate past Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has attributed the rising cases of banditry and other forms of insecurity in Bauchi State and parts of the country to what he described as an imbalance in land use between farmers and herders.

Tuggar made this known on Sunday during a chat with journalists while outlining his key priority areas ahead of his governorship ambition in Bauchi State.

He emphasised that pastoralism should not be seen as backward, noting that it remains a legitimate and longstanding way of life practised even in developed societies.

According to him, “Transhumance is a way of life and is not incompatible with modern societies. Pastoralists exist in advanced countries, so it is not a sign of backwardness.”

The former minister stressed the need to modernise pastoral practices and agricultural systems, including the development and proper management of grazing routes and reserves.

He explained that population growth and encroachment on designated grazing areas have heightened tensions, leading to clashes between farmers and herders.

Tuggar warned against the indiscriminate allocation of large expanses of farmland to individuals who fail to utilise them productively, saying such actions often displace subsistence farmers and deprive them of their livelihoods.

“When people are disenfranchised and can no longer sustain themselves, they may resort to banditry or other criminal activities,” he said.

He called for a balanced approach that protects both farmers and herders, urging collaboration with traditional institutions and local governments to address the challenge.

The former minister also underscored the importance of adhering to constitutional provisions that prioritise the welfare of citizens, warning that governance should not favour a privileged few at the expense of the majority.

While speaking on pensions and gratuities, Tuggar noted that the failure to pay retirees their entitlements contributes to social instability.

He explained that when pensioners are unable to cater for their families, their dependants may be pushed into criminal activities, including kidnapping and banditry.

He pledged that, if elected, the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities would be among his top priorities.

“It is critical for the survival of individuals and for maintaining social stability. When families are neglected, insecurity can grow,” he added.

Tuggar further identified agriculture, mining, and business process outsourcing as key sectors that could generate employment and reduce poverty.

He said improving agricultural productivity and supporting pastoral systems would address a significant portion of unemployment, while investments in local processing and digital skills training would create opportunities for educated youths.

Drawing comparisons with global examples, he noted that countries like India have leveraged outsourcing to create jobs, urging similar strategies to harness Nigeria’s youthful population.

He maintained that inclusive economic policies and equitable land use would play a crucial role in tackling insecurity and fostering sustainable development in the state and beyond