Infiltration of Herdsmen Brand Terror in Bayelsa, Nigeria: Assessing Government Policies

Abstract

While traditionally concentrated in central and northern Nigeria, reports of attacks and terror activities attributed to herdsmen have emerged in Bayelsa State in recent times. This is concerning given the state's geographical location, economic contribution to the country, and history of violence. Consequently, it represents the raging spread of terror and exposes the inadequate responses of the government, prompting the question, 'How do government policies impact the crisis?'. Gurr's relative deprivation theory was utilised to provide insight into how the frustrations of individuals—farmers and herders—developed from perceived feelings of deprivation about the other party, provoking social and group action. Employing qualitative content analysis, the study relied heavily on reputable secondary sources to detect trends and patterns of policy formulation and implementation and their effect on the crisis. The study explored government strategies from 2014 on both federal and state levels and concluded that deep-seated corruption, weak institutions, ethnic intolerance, and negligence have impeded the implementation of necessary strategies, thereby exacerbating the crisis. Hence, the paper recommended the implementation of anti-corruption measures, the establishment of local and community channels for dialogue and mediation, and nationwide sensitisation regarding respect for human lives, property, and rights.