OLAYOKU, Philip A. (2014) Trends and patterns of cattle grazing and rural violence in Nigeria (2006-2014)

Relying on the Nigeria Watch database from June 2006 to May 2014, this study analyses the root causes, dynamics, evolution, and politicisation of cattle grazing conflicts in Nigeria. After reviewing the historical, political, and socio-economic contexts, it identifies the key actors in lethal rural violence from cattle grazing as herdsmen, farmers, community members, vigilantes, security operatives, government officials, and, in rare cases, religious leaders. The study also highlights the intensity and the time frame of such violence. No cycles were identified. The North Central region appears to be the hotbed of these conflicts, though the problem remains spread across different parts of the country and occurs at different times of the year.