Crop Farmers Adjustments Strategies to Civil Disturbances in Bauchi South Senatorial Zone
1Gizaki, L. J.; J. B. Dinah1 & S. Yakubu.2
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension
Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria
2Agricultural Economics and Extension Programme
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria
Email: ljgizak@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The study was carried out to assess the
effects of civil unrest on crop production in Bauchi South Senatorial zone. The
target population included all crop farmers who had been affected by incessant
crises in the zone. A multistage sampling procedure was adapted to purposively
select three Local government areas (LGAs) out of the seven LGAs in the zone
based on their involvement in the crises recorded in the area. A structured
interview schedule was used to collect data from 84 respondents for the study
while percentage and mean score were employed in analyzing the data. The
findings show that majority (64%) of the respondents had one hectare of farm
land with an annual average income of (N
12,297.6) per annum. The major causes of conflict in the area were rights to
the ownership of Tafawa Balewa town and social injustice (82% each). Crops
cultivated during crises included rice (77%), maize (66%) and cowpea (62%).
Migration of farmers in conflict areas (M= 2.57), loss of lives (M=2.46) and
inadequate food (M=2.45) were perceived by the respondents as the major effects
of conflict. Praying for peace (M=2.79), cultivate crops near the village
(M=2.54) and diversification of crops (M=2.43) were employed by farmers as
adjustment strategies. It was recommended that opportunities should be created
to employ idle youths who are available tools for use in times of conflict
through skill work acquisition. Similarly there is need to enhance peace and
harmony in the country so as to create conducive environment for agriculture
and other economic ventures.
Keywords: Crop farmers, adjustment, crisis, Bauchi
