WHO ARE THE BANDITS? WHY FULANI HERDERS TURN BANDITS AND KIDNAPPERS IN ZAMFARA STATE, NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates reasons and factors which influences the Fulani herders to turn to bandits and kidnappers. To identify the identities of the bandits based on tribes and their impacts in the banditry businesses (Who are the bandits?) and to assess the consequences of Banditry on non-bandits Fulani Herders. The study employs both primary and secondary sources of data. It also utilizes Routine Activity Theory to conduct the study. Bad-Governance, illiteracy, injustice, access/proliferation of weapons, quick way of getting money etc., are the reasons why Fulani herders, turned to bandits and kidnappers. It also finds that bandits are collection of many tribes across Nigeria and even foreigners, the innocent Fulani herders suffers harassment, intimidation, threat, attacks and often time kill as retaliation. The government needs to stand to her responsibilities. Awareness and campaign on not taking jungle justice among the societies are needed. Individuals, private and public investments in water conservation, and cattle value-chain development can help to curb driving and exacerbating factors of land disputes, which birthed the bandits.