Rethinking Fulani-Tiv Ethnic Groups Crisis And Its Implication On National Cohesion In Nigeria

Abstract

This research examines the Fulani-Tiv ethnic groups' crisis and its implication on national cohesion in Nigeria. The high cases of ethnic conflict and unending clashes in the country call for urgent attention, especially in the middle belt part of Nigeria. This is a classic multilateral ethnic crisis, stimulated, encouraged, and fueled by environmental, political, and cultural stressors. While the conflict between Nigeria's sedentary farmers and nomadic Fulani herders goes back decades, the current full-scale escalation of conflict between the Fulani and Tiv is a recent phenomenon. This study used explorative and empirical data deriving, including articles, journals, government reports, and the internet, to establish the subject matter. The result shows that the implication of the crisis has led to division among various ethnic groups including loss of lives and destruction of properties. The upward derailing of the unity and cohesion of the country due to the Fulani-Tiv ethnic groups' crisis has been a major implication. This study concludes and recommends that both ethnic groups come together and engage in a true dialogue on resolving differences and ensuring peaceful co-existence. Also, the government needs to provide the consciousness of building national unity via policies that respect fundamental human rights in the country.