Tension has reportedly emerged in Dabi community following a farmers–herders dispute on Saturday evening, October 31, 2026, after herders allegedly destroyed farmlands belonging to 11 individual farmers, raising fresh concerns over the persistent conflict between agricultural communities and livestock herders.
The incident has drawn the attention of Hon. Danladi Bomboyi Chiya, former Chairman of Kwali Area Council and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Abuja South Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, who condemned the reported destruction of the farms and called for urgent intervention by security agencies.
Chiya expressed concern over the impact of the incident on the affected farmers, whose livelihoods depend on agricultural production. He urged security operatives to intervene promptly, investigate the circumstances surrounding the dispute and take appropriate measures to prevent further escalation.
The former council chairman also appealed to farmers and herders to embrace peace, restraint and dialogue, warning against actions capable of worsening tensions within the community. He stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence and the need for both parties to resolve their differences without resorting to violence or the destruction of property.
Beyond condemning the incident, Chiya reportedly pledged to pursue legislation against open grazing if elected to represent Abuja South in the House of Representatives. The proposed legislative move, according to his position, is intended to address recurring conflicts associated with grazing activities and farming, while promoting a more sustainable approach to livestock management.
The pledge has placed renewed attention on the debate over open grazing and the need for effective policies that protect farmers’ investments, safeguard livestock owners’ interests and reduce the risk of violent confrontations between the two groups.
For the 11 farmers reportedly affected in Dabi, the destruction of their crops represents a potential loss of income, food production and the resources invested in cultivating their farms. Such incidents can also undermine community relations and heighten insecurity if they are not addressed through timely intervention and transparent dispute-resolution mechanisms.
Residents and relevant authorities are therefore expected to prioritise efforts to establish the full circumstances of the incident, assess the reported damage and ensure that any person found responsible is dealt with in accordance with the law.
While Chiya’s call for peace underscores the importance of preventing further confrontation, the incident also highlights the need for lasting solutions to recurring farmers–herders disputes, including effective security responses, clear grazing regulations, constructive engagement between affected communities and accountability for the destruction of livelihoods.
As of the time of this report, independent confirmation of the full extent of the damage, the identities of those involved and any official security response was not available. The allegations concerning the destruction of the farms have not been independently verified.
Chronicles Reporters will continue to monitor developments in Dabi community and efforts to resolve the dispute peacefully.