The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba state has urged farmers and herders to prioritize peace, tolerance, and mutual respect as the 2026 rainy season begins, warning that renewed farming activities could heighten tensions if caution is not observed.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the CAN Coordinator in the council, Pastor Zephaniah John, the association called on both groups to avoid actions capable of triggering conflict as they return to farmlands and grazing routes across the area.

He emphasized that peaceful coexistence remains essential in the agrarian communities of Lau, noting that both farming and livestock rearing depend on stability. According to him, “the farmer needs peace to cultivate, and the herder needs peace to rear livestock,” while condemning violence as harmful to all sides.

The CAN leadership also commended the administration of governor Agbu Kefas for establishing the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, describing it as a proactive effort to address insecurity and communal disputes across Taraba State.

The statement, as observed by The Guardian, further praised the inclusion of local representatives in key advisory and peacebuilding roles within the state structure.

Farmers were advised to avoid encroaching on established grazing routes and water points, and to report disputes to traditional rulers, the Ardo, or security agencies rather than resorting to self-help. Herders were equally urged to respect farmlands, avoid night grazing, and ensure compensation where crops are damaged.

CAN also called on religious and community leaders under groups such as Christian Association of Nigeria, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Miyetti Allah, and All Farmers Association of Nigeria to intensify peace messaging and discourage inflammatory statements.

Security agencies, including Operation Whirl Stroke, were also commended for their ongoing efforts in maintaining stability in the region. CAN, however, called for increased patrols in identified flashpoints such as Jauro Bakari, Kunini, Doubeli Lavoro, and the Mayo-Lope axis to prevent potential clashes.

The association further urged the Taraba State Government and Lau Local Government Council to convene a farmers-herders peace dialogue ahead of peak farming activities, aimed at agreeing on clearer rules of engagement for the season.