Violent Extremism And Food Security In Guma Local Government Area, Benue State And Its Implication For National Security

Abstract

Benue State has continued to experience various forms of violent activities ranging from kidnapping, banditry, farmers-herders killings, and other violent extremism. This study examined the effects of violent extremism on food security in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, and its implication for national security. The study objective was to examine how violence disrupts economic activities and the impact on food production. Protracted social conflict theory was used to explain extremist activities in Guma LGA. The study used a cross-sectional survey design, while a questionnaire and in-depth interview (IDI) were used to collect data from 300 respondents. Linear regression was used in testing the hypotheses. The study hypothesis found a significant (R=.0.716) p<0.05) relationship between crop destruction, abandonment of farmland, and socio-economic activities in Guma LGA. Also, there was a significant (R= 0.825) p<0.05) relationship between lack of access to social gatherings and socio-political activities in Guma LGA. The study concludes that many people have been rendered homeless in their fatherland due to violent extremism, thereby disrupting agricultural activities and supply chains and resulting in a decline in food production. The study recommends, among others, that traditional leaders should be involved in resolving violence. As a matter of statutory responsibility, the government should take urgent security measures to protect citizens' lives and property. Furthermore, there is a need for attitudinal change among groups in the areas to avoid future violent occurrences that affect both food security and national security.