Environment and Ecology Research Vol. 12(1), pp. 1 - 9
DOI: 10.13189/eer.2024.120101
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The Struggle for Space and Conflict of Interests between Human and Animals for Rights and Welfare in Nigeria - A Case Study

Mary Ann. O. Ajayi ¹, Olufemi Alabi ^2,*
1 College of Law, Bowen University, Nigeria
² Agriculture Programme, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, Bowen University, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Over the years, humans and animals have coexisted with minimal infractions on both rights. However, the quest for survival which has been triggered by economic, cultural, religious, and security issues has contributed to persistent conflicts for human survival which grossly affects human/animal welfare/rights. Conflict can be said to occur between the relationships of humans and animals when there is a struggle for space and survival. Evidence abounds of the constant encroachment of humans on the space previously occupied by animals. Human activities such as deforestation, deliberate wildlife captivity, and indiscriminate removal of animals for the benefit of human needs, trigger encroachment of animal space by humans. The removal of these animals from their natural environment no doubt affects welfare/rights protected by law. The utilitarian theory was adopted in this paper to explain the importance of animal welfare/rights. This work investigated human/animal conflicts using Akure-Ofosu Forest Reserve as a case study. It found among other things that factors such as poverty, increase in the human population, and lack of education/enlightenment about the benefits of the presence of some animals are the main push for human encroachment on animal space. The study reveals that the issue of animal rights is still unpopular in Nigeria and similarly, the enforcement of laws pertaining to these rights is also lacking. It therefore recommends that issues of peaceful co-existence of humans and animals be addressed urgently by Government and NGOs to reduce conflicts. Human and animal interactions are inevitable hence, cannot be devoid of conflict; therefore, efforts made at resolving these conflicts should protect both interests. Future UN SGDs goals should capture animal welfare issues considering their importance in sustaining other goals.

KEYWORDS
Animal Rights, Animal Welfare, Conflict, Conservation, Human Rights

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Mary Ann. O. Ajayi , Olufemi Alabi , "The Struggle for Space and Conflict of Interests between Human and Animals for Rights and Welfare in Nigeria - A Case Study," Environment and Ecology Research, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 1 - 9, 2024. DOI: 10.13189/eer.2024.120101.

(b). APA Format:
Mary Ann. O. Ajayi , Olufemi Alabi (2024). The Struggle for Space and Conflict of Interests between Human and Animals for Rights and Welfare in Nigeria - A Case Study. Environment and Ecology Research, 12(1), 1 - 9. DOI: 10.13189/eer.2024.120101.