Fulani group urges herders to support security efforts in South-West

The Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria (CFPN) has called on Fulani pastoralists across the South-West to continue working with security agencies and host communities to improve security and sustain peaceful coexistence.

The group made the appeal amid recent discussions over insecurity in parts of Oyo State and concerns over alleged profiling of Fulani communities.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Convener of CFPN, Ibrahim Barkindo Chubado, urged herders engaged in legitimate livestock activities to assist authorities with useful information that could help identify criminal elements operating in forests and rural communities.

He said insecurity should not be linked to any ethnic group, warning against generalising the actions of criminals to peaceful residents.

Chubado also welcomed recent remarks by Yoruba activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, saying the comments reflected a commitment to peaceful coexistence and dialogue.

According to him, the development could strengthen trust between pastoralists and their host communities, especially in Oyo State.

“We appreciate the understanding and support shown by our host communities and remain committed to contributing to efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property,” he said.

The group maintained that Fulani pastoralists had continued to cooperate with security agencies through information sharing and other lawful means to address kidnapping and related crimes.

Chubado said many disputes arising from farmer-herder relations had also been resolved through dialogue and established local mechanisms.

He appealed to governments, traditional leaders and community stakeholders to ensure the safety of pastoral communities, noting that herders were also victims of banditry, cattle rustling and violent attacks.

He stressed that criminal acts should be treated as individual offences rather than attributed to ethnicity or religion.

The group urged Nigerians to support efforts to tackle insecurity and avoid actions capable of creating division among communities.

CFPN reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with communities across the South-West and the country.