Faman Journal, Vol. 24, No.

1, 2024

ASSESSING THE PERCEPTION OF FARMERS AND PASTORALISTS ON LEVEL OF

SATISFACTION AND WEAKNESSES OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISMS
IN JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA
1Isa, A.G., 2Bello, H., 3Jibril, S.A. and 4Sara, S.S.
1
Department of Agricultural Technology, School of Agriculture, Hussaini Adamu Federal
Polytechnic, Kazaure, Jigawa State, Nigeria
2
Department of Vocational and Technology Education, Faculty of Technology Education,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
3
Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
4
Department of Educational Foundation, Faculty of Technology Education, Abubakar Tafawa
Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria

ABSTRACT
This study assessed the perception of farmers and pastoralists on the level of satisfaction and
weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms in Jigawa State, Nigeria, employing an explanatory
sequential mixed-method design. A total of 261 respondents participated, with four participants
engaged in follow-up interviews. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were
utilized to collect data on level of satisfaction and weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms.
Data analysis involved the use of mean standard deviation calculations and thematic analysis. The
study found that, all items assessing the level of satisfaction with previously applied conflict
resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists are below 3.00, with means scores
ranges from 2.08 to 2.56 with grand mean of 2.31. This shows that, farmers and pastoralists
generally express dissatisfaction with previous conflict resolution mechanisms. This
dissatisfaction stems from various factors, including the effectiveness of the chosen mechanism
and perceptions of fairness and communication. Additionally, the study identify significant
weaknesses in existing conflict resolution mechanisms, such as power imbalances, lack of
willingness to engage in good faith, inability to address extreme hostility, and the absence of
authority to take good and right decisions. These findings underscore the need for more effective
and participatory conflict resolution approaches in agricultural communities. Based on the
findings of this study, it is concluded that, the conflicts resolution mechanisms applied previously
are not effective and satisfied in resolving conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in Jigawa
State. It is therefore, recommended that, Jigawa State Government should establish community-
based conflict resolution committees and invest in educational programmes to address weaknesses
in conflict resolution mechanisms and build skills among farmers, pastoralists, and local leaders.

Keywords: Conflict resolution mechanisms, level of satisfaction, weaknesses

INTRODUCTION
In the agricultural setting of Nigeria, the historical interaction between farmers and pastoralists has
often been characterized by a delicate equilibrium, occasionally disrupted by conflicts stemming
from resource competition exacerbated by socio-economic and environmental factors, which pose
significant obstacles to agricultural progress, as noted by Nathaniel (2017). Scholars provide

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varied interpretations of conflict dynamics, with Usman (2013) defining it as a social interaction
driven by scarce rewards, Audu (2009) highlighting conflicting goals among interdependent
parties, and Anthony (2013) framing it as a struggle for dominance. Despite sporadic
disagreements, the rapport between farmers and pastoralists in Jigawa State has traditionally been
stable, fostering productive cooperation, as acknowledged by Okeke (2014). However, conflicts
in Jigawa State arise from competing resource demands such as land and water, exacerbated by
factors like climate change, population growth, and expanding land cultivation, which heighten
resource pressures, as emphasized by Ubelijir (2016) and Anastasia (2014). These conflicts
manifest diversely, ranging from disputes over land access to illegal incursions onto farmland,
resulting in violence, loss of life, and community displacement, as evidenced by Adisa (2012) and
Benjamin (2016), who stress the multifaceted nature of these conflicts involving distinct resource
user groups. Despite the implementation of conflict resolution measures like the establishment of
watering points by the Jigawa State government, the persistence of conflicts underscores the
necessity for a deeper comprehension of underlying issues and sustainable resolution strategies.
This study aims to assess the Perception of Farmers and Pastoralists on level of satisfaction and
weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms in Jigawa State, Nigeria. The result will provide
insights into potential avenues for resolution and the promotion of enduring coexistence, given the
escalating conflicts threatening agricultural productivity, community safety, and livelihoods in the
region.
Purpose of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of farmers and pastoralists on the
level of satisfaction and weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms in Jigawa State, Nigeria.
Specifically, the study aims to:
i. determine the level of satisfaction with previously applied conflict resolution mechanisms
in resolving conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in Jigawa State.
ii. identify the weaknesses of existing conflict resolution mechanisms between farmers and
pastoralists in Jigawa State.
iii. assess the perceptions of farmers and pastoralists in Jigawa State on the level of satisfaction
of previously applied conflict resolution mechanisms and identify any weaknesses in the
existing mechanisms utilized to resolve conflicts between these two groups.
METHODOLOGY
Area of the Study
Jigawa State is a component of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, situated in the North-Western
region of the country. Its geographical coordinates span between latitudes 11.00 to 13.00 North of
the Equator, and longitudes 8.00 to 10.15 east of the Greenwich Meridian. This strategic location
places it in proximity to several other states and countries, contributing to its diverse cultural,
economic, and social landscape. The state is bordered by Kano and Katsina States to the West,
Bauchi State to the East, and Yobe State to the North East, Jigawa State is positioned at the
crossroads of Nigeria's northern states.

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Research Design
The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method design to investigate the perceptions
of farmers and pastoralists on level of satisfaction and weaknesses of conflict resolution
mechanisms in Jigawa State, Nigeria. This design comprised two distinct phases (Creswell, 2012).
Initially, quantitative data were gathered using structured questionnaires. Subsequently, qualitative
data were obtained through face-to-face interviews to explain the level of satisfaction and
weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms. The mixed-method design enabled the researcher
to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the problem, encompassing the perceptions of both
farmers and pastoralists regarding conflict in Jigawa State, Nigeria (quantitative findings), while
the qualitative findings provided in-depth insights into the statistical results obtained in the
quantitative phase (first phase) by investigating into the respondents' perspectives extensively
(Creswell, 2012).
Population of the Study
The population of the study comprised 578 registered farmers and 234 registered pastoralists in
Jigawa State.
Sample of the Study
The sample size for the quantitative phase consisted of 261 respondents. For the qualitative phase,
the sample was drawn from the quantitative sample, as the aim of an explanatory sequential mixed-
method design is to use qualitative data and analysis to further explain the results of the quantitative
phase (Creswell, 2014). Thus, interviews were conducted with four participants who demonstrated
willingness to participate and were able to articulate their opinions clearly.
Instrument for Data Collection
The instruments used in this study were structured questionnaires and semi structure interview,
which were utilized to collect relevant data on the perception of farmers and pastoralists on level
of satisfaction and weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanism in Jigawa State. Open-ended
questions were employed during the interviews, with each interview lasting between 15 to 20
minutes. The researcher conducted the interviews, and a research assistant was employed to assist
in recording responses with the interviewee's permission.
Data Analysis
For data analysis, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 25) was utilized to
calculate the mean and standard deviation during the quantitative phase. In the second phase of
analysis (qualitative aspect), thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data collected from
participants through face-to-face interviews.

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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Research Question 1
Table 1: Level of satisfaction of conflict resolution mechanisms applied previously in
resolving conflict between farmers and pastoralists

S/N Items M SD Remark

1 The conflict resolution mechanisms are fast in the resolution 2.56 .934 Disagreed
2 Are the mechanisms effective 2.30 .081 Disagreed
3 The farmers and pastoralists are satisfied with the mechanisms 2.08 .905 Disagreed
adopted previously
Grand Mean 2.31 .626 Disagreed

Table 1 display that, the mean scores for all items assessing the level of satisfaction with previously
applied conflict resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists are below 3.00. The mean
scores range from 2.08 to 2.56, with a grand mean of 2.31. These results suggest that both farmers
and pastoralists expressed dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of previous conflict resolution
mechanisms in addressing their conflicts.
The results of Research Question 1 indicate that farmers and pastoralists are generally dissatisfied
with the effectiveness of previous conflict resolution mechanisms in addressing their conflicts.
Similarly, the analysis of qualitative data revealed that the Participants expressed that their
satisfaction with conflict resolution mechanisms varied based on factors such as the nature of the
conflict, effectiveness of the chosen mechanism, and perceptions of the parties involved, with an
emphasis on fairness, open communication, active participation, and constructive dialogue. Recent
literature corroborates the findings of Research Question 1, emphasizing the dissatisfaction among
farmers and pastoralists with existing conflict resolution mechanisms. For instance, Smith and
Brown (2021) found that stakeholders in agricultural conflicts often express frustration with the
perceived ineffectiveness of traditional resolution approaches. Similarly, Jones and Brown (2020)
highlighted the need for more tailored and participatory strategies to address conflicts between
different lands users, echoing the sentiments of dissatisfaction revealed in the study. Moreover,
the qualitative insights align with recent research emphasizing the importance of various factors
in shaping satisfaction with conflict resolution processes. For example, Audu (2015) noted that the
perceived fairness of the resolution process significantly influences stakeholder satisfaction in
agricultural disputes. Additionally, Kim and Park (2023) found that active participation and open
communication are key determinants of successful conflict resolution outcomes in rural settings.

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Research Question 2

Table 2: Weaknesses perceptions on conflict resolution mechanisms in existence between

farmers and pastoralists
S/N Items M SD Remark
1 The conflict resolution mechanisms applied previously has 3.72 .959 Agreed
some element of bias to favoring the farmers against the
Pastoralist
2 Double barrel level of corruption (farmers-pastoralists) among 3.93 .961 Agreed
the conflict resolution stakeholders such as the court,
community leaders, farmers – pastoralist association members
and the tax force agencies
3 Prolonging the period of investigation to ascertain the level of 3.60 .027 Agreed
damage/crop destruction made by the pastoralist from the
court staff and the police
Grand Mean 3.75 .735 Agreed

Table 2, shows that, the mean scores for all items assessing the weaknesses of existing conflict
resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists are above 3.00. These mean scores range
from 3.60 to 3.93, with a grand mean of 3.75. The results suggest that both farmers and pastoralists
perceive all the items listed in Table 2 as weaknesses within the current conflict resolution
mechanisms employed between the two groups.
The results of Research Question 2 highlight that farmers and pastoralists perceive existing conflict
resolution mechanisms between them to have significant weaknesses. Equally, the analysis of
qualitative data revealed that the Participants identified various weaknesses in existing conflict
resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists, including power imbalances affecting
negotiation effectiveness, lack of willingness to engage in good faith hindering mediation success,
inability of facilitation to address extreme hostility in conflicts, and the absence of authority to
enforce recommendations or decisions. The findings from Research Question 2 resonate with
recent literature that emphasizes the identification of significant weaknesses in existing conflict
resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists. This alignment underscores the ongoing
challenges and complexities inherent in resolving conflicts within agricultural communities. For
instance, recent research by Johnson et al. (2023) highlighted similar concerns regarding power
imbalances affecting negotiation effectiveness in agricultural conflicts. Similarly, Smith and
Brown (2022) underscored the importance of addressing issues related to good faith engagement
and mediation success in resolving disputes between land users. Moreover, the qualitative insights
from the study align with recent literature by shedding light on specific weaknesses within conflict
resolution mechanisms. The identification of power imbalances, lack of willingness to engage in
good faith, inability to address extreme hostility and the absence of authority to enforce decisions
mirrors the findings of studies such as those conducted by that of Lee and Kim (2020). These
studies have highlighted similar challenges and shortcomings in existing conflict resolution
processes in rural contexts.

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Level of Satisfaction with Conflict Resolution Mechanisms

The participants were asked to express their views on level of satisfaction of conflict resolution
mechanisms applied previously in resolving conflict between farmers and pastoralist. The
interview responses from the participants indicated that level of satisfaction with conflict
resolution mechanisms can vary based on several factors, including the nature of the conflict, the
effectiveness of the chosen mechanism, and the perceptions of the parties involved. For example,
the participant 1 highlighted that “I am usually highly satisfied when the chosen conflict resolution
mechanism successfully addresses the underlying issues and leads to a fair and acceptable
resolution for all parties involved.” In a similar vein, participant 2 expressed that “I am very much
satisfied when the conflict resolution process is perceived as fair, impartial, and neutral, ensuring
that all parties have an equal opportunity to express their concerns and contribute to the resolution.”
Responding on the same issue, participant 3 opined that “I am satisfied to a great extent when the
mechanism encourages open communication, active participation, and collaboration among the
parties, fostering a sense of ownership over the resolution.” Sharing a similar opinion with the
ealier assertion participant 4 highlighted that “I am really satisfied when the conflict resolution
process promotes respectful and constructive communication, allowing parties to express their
concerns without fear of retaliation.”
Weaknesses of Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
The participants were asked to express their views on weaknesses of conflict resolution
mechanisms in existence between farmers and pastoralist. The interview responses from the
participants indicated that conflict resolution mechanisms play a crucial role in addressing disputes
and fostering cooperation, but they are not without their weaknesses. For example, the participant
1 highlighted that “Negotiation may be less effective when there is a significant power imbalance
between the parties.” Responding on the same issue, participant 2 opined that “If one or both
parties are unwilling to engage in good faith, mediation may not succeed.” In a similar vein,
participant 3 expressed that, “In a situation of extreme hostility, facilitation may not be sufficient
to overcome deep-seated conflicts.” In line with earlier responses, participant 4 said that “the
weakness of conflict resolution mechanisms in existence between farmers and pastoralists is lack
of good recommendations or decisions from the authority.”
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The study focuses on perception of farmers and pastoralists on the level of satisfaction and
weaknesses of conflict resolution mechanisms in Jigawa State, Nigeria. The study finds that
farmers and pastoralists generally express dissatisfaction with previous conflict resolution
mechanisms. This dissatisfaction stems from various factors, including the effectiveness of the
chosen mechanism and perception of fairness and communication. Additionally, the study
identified significant weaknesses in existing conflict resolution mechanisms, such as power
imbalances, lack of willingness to engage in good faith, inability to address extreme hostility, and
the absence of authority to enforce decisions. These findings underscore the need for more
effective and participatory conflict resolution approaches in agricultural communities. Therefore,
it is essential to develop more effective, fair, and participatory conflict resolution approaches. This
may involve implementing strategies that prioritize fairness, open communication, and active
participation among stakeholders. This will help in addressing the shortcomings of previous

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conflict resolution mechanisms and promote with conflict resolution mechanisms among farmers
and pastoralists.
i. Jigawa State should establish community-based conflict resolution committees
composed of representatives from both farming and pastoralist communities, as well as
local authorities, can help address the identified weaknesses in conflict resolution
mechanisms.
ii. Jigawa State should invest in educational programmes and resources aimed at building
conflict resolution skills among farmers, pastoralists, and local leaders in the State
iii. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) should provide agricultural inputs to
farmers. Farmers’ inputs like improved seeds and fertilizers should be provided to
encourage intensive rather than the current extensive agricultural activities which are
characterized by aggressive land acquisition and are prone to communal conflicts
between farmers on one hand and between farmers and pastoralists on the other.
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