THE ROLES OF MUSIC AND FILM IN THE SUPPRESSION OF FULANI HERDSMEN TERRORISM IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Music and Film are two sides of the same coin. Two distinct but inseparable art forms. Both art forms have from their inceptions contributed significantly to the growth and development of societies. Their ability to enhance societal growth and development is unquantifiable. This paper examines the roles of Music and Film in the suppression of Fulani Herdsmen Terrorism in Nigeria and the sustainability of an enduring peace in the country. The study adopts Emile Durkheim’s functionalist theory, otherwise known as functionalism, to drive its thesis. The study argues that despites sundry entreaties to the Fulani herdsmen to halt their offensive cattle rearing method that provoke farmer-herdsmen conflicts and ultimately civil unrest, little or no anticipated result has been recorded. The study further asserts that the primordial abilities of music to engender peace and tranquility still subsists. It submits that film has the capacity of effective dissemination of impactful information. It submits that music and film, combined and electively deployed, will go a long way to facilitate needed reorientation of the herdsmen and enable peaceful and enabling environment that is desirable for sustainable quality life, growth and development in Nigeria. The paper, among other things, recommend that Nigerian Government should invest in the music and film industries so as to enable the sectors thrive and perform their functions effectively. It is also recommended that music education and film training should be prioritised in Nigeria while adequate monitoring of musical and cinematic products is institutionalised.