Land Conflict Management Under a Tree Cropping System: The Case of Theobroma cacao in Southwestern Nigeria

Authors

E. O. Idowu, Obafemi Awolowo University

Abstract

General observation and systematic research have consistently indicated that a sizeable portion of farmlands within the cacao growing communities of southwestern Nigeria is tenant-operated. This article will focus primarily on a specific study area within Southwestern Nigeria. Within the study area, the cultivation of cacao, mainly for export, is of primary importance to the farmers. Economic and social activities revolve around the crop with annual festivals and ceremonies held during the periods immediately after the annual sale of the crop. Until 1985, the study area produced about 40% of total Theobroma cacao (cacao) output for southwestern Nigeria. This share has continued to decline as a result of recurring land conflicts and the dislocation of a large number of migrant farmers. Past conflicts within the study area had often resulted in the abandonment of cacao plantations and its attendant decline in total output of the crop.

Disciplines

Comparative and Foreign Law | Dispute Resolution and Arbitration | Law | Law and Politics

Recommended Citation

E. O. Idowu, Land Conflict Management Under a Tree Cropping System: The Case of Theobroma cacao in Southwestern Nigeria, 8 Cardozo J. Conflict Resol. 143 (2006).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cjcr/vol8/iss1/6