Politics and Cross-Border Migrations in Africa: Forced Migration of Cameroonians and Food Crisis in Benue state, Nigeria since 2016

Abstract

The root of the  political crisis in Cameroon which became known as the ‘Anglophone’ problem may be traced back to 1961 when the major political elites of the two territories with different colonial legacies-one French and the other British- agreed to form a federal state. However, contrary to expectations, this did not result to the equal partnership of both parties or the preservation of the cultural heritage and identity of each. Overtime, therefore this created an Anglophone consciousness- the feeling of marginalisation, exploitation and assimilation by the francophone –dominated state and by the francophone population. The political crisis between the authorities in the majority francophone Cameroon and English-speaking protesters in the North West and South West Cameroon led to the forced movement of Anglophone-Cameroonians into the neighbouring Nigeria seeking refuge in four states of Cross-River, Benue, Akwa-Ibom and Taraba. The presence of the refugees in impoverished host communities put strains on the food resources and already limited facilities in these areas. Focusing primarily on Benue communities, this study examines the nature of the relationship between the refugees and host communities, the nature of the food crisis and the response from local and international organisations, partners, central and state government in addressing the food problems of the refugees on one hand. On the other, attention is specifically drawn to the effects of the food crisis on the impoverished host communities. We draw on available data, articles, reports and fieldwork report conducted in the host communities of Benue state towards providing deep insights on the nature of the food crisis, interventions and the effects of the refugee crisis on the food economy of the host communities.

Keywords: Forced Migration, Refugee, Food Crisis