In the unfolding saga of conflict between herders and farmers in Bagwai Local Government Area of Kano State, a Magistrate Court in Noman’s Lands has taken a decisive step by ordering the remand of six farmers allegedly involved in the killing of a herder and his 97 cows.
The suspects, identified as Sani Abdullahi, Ilyasu Isa, Saleh Saidu, Isyaku Yau, Rabiu Sani, and Nata’ala Sani, faced accusations of obstructing herders, resulting in a fatal conflict that led to the death of Shehu Abubakar, 25, and the disappearance of 91 cattle.
Magistrate Talatu Makama, presiding over the case, issued the remand order on Monday, directing the suspects to be held in a correctional facility until Wednesday when the hearing is scheduled to take place.
The police, acting on a First Information Report (FIR), have also identified three additional suspects who are currently on the run.
The prosecution outlined the events leading to the alleged crime, stating that the defendants blocked a cattle road, impeding herders on their way to feed their animals.
The ensuing conflict resulted in the death of Mr. Abubakar and the loss of 97 cattle, with 91 others unaccounted for. The estimated value of the killed and missing cattle is reported to be N102.7 million.
According to the police, the deceased, Mr. Abubakar, was officially declared dead by a medical doctor at Bagwai General Hospital.
The charges brought against the defendants are grounded in the violation of sections 97, 221, and 329 of the Penal Code Law of Kano State, reflecting the severity of the alleged offenses.
In response to the charges, the defendants pleaded not guilty, setting the stage for a legal battle that will unfold in the coming days.
The incident sheds light on the persistent tensions between herders and farmers in the region, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of such conflicts.
As the legal proceedings progress, the case raises broader questions about the delicate balance between agricultural and pastoral activities, and the necessity for effective conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further escalation.
The outcome of this trial will likely influence future efforts to foster peaceful coexistence between different communities engaged in agricultural and herding practices in Kano and beyond.
