AN ASSESSMENT OF HERDERS ATTACKS TO RURAL SECURITY IN ONDO STATE: A STUDY OF OWO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ONDO STATE

ABSTRACT Herders-farmers conflict remains a persistent security and socio-economic challenge in Nigeria, particularly in agrarian communities like Owo Local Government Area (LGA) of Ondo State. This study investigates the nature, causes, and security responses to herdsmen attacks in the region. Specifically, the objectives were to explore the extent and forms of herdsmen attacks, examine the socioeconomic factors predisposing the conflict, and evaluate the effectiveness of security policies and interventions in Owo LGA. A quantitative research design was adopted, with the population comprising residents of Owo LGA. A total sample size of 100 respondents was drawn from an estimated population of 341,400 using Taro Yamane’s formula and multi-stage sampling involving simple random and convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire divided into four sections reflecting demographic data, nature of attacks, socioeconomic causes, and security policies. The analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0 with descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Findings revealed that herders’ attacks in the area were frequent and had severely disrupted agricultural activities, led to financial losses, and contributed to population displacement. Socioeconomic factors such as land scarcity, water resource competition, cultural tensions, and economic disparity were identified as key contributors to the conflict. Security responses, while present, were limited in scope and effectiveness, particularly in technology use and policy implementation. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening community-based patrol units, allocating designated grazing areas, and integrating surveillance technologies into rural security operations for more responsive conflict management.