Call Igboho To Order Over Remarks Against Fulani Communities — Group Tells Tinubu, Makinde

A Fulani socio-cultural organisation, the Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria, has called on President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to caution Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, over what it described as inflammatory remarks directed at Fulani communities in Oyo State.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the group’s Convener, Ibrahim Barkindo Chubado, following reports that Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in parts of Oyo State over the alleged abduction of a woman and her children.

According to the reports, Igboho threatened to confront individuals he believed were connected to the kidnapping if the victims were not released within the stipulated period. He also reportedly vowed to enter a forest reserve allegedly being used as a hideout by suspected kidnappers.

Reacting to the development, the Fulani group warned that linking an entire ethnic community to criminal acts allegedly committed by a few individuals could worsen ethnic tensions and threaten peaceful coexistence.

Chubado said criminal activities such as kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes should not be used as a basis for profiling Fulani people across the country.

He stressed that Fulani communities are made up largely of law-abiding citizens who should not be collectively blamed for the actions of criminal elements.

The group noted that while there may be criminals among different ethnic and religious groups in Nigeria, crime should be addressed on an individual basis rather than through ethnic generalisation.

“We are not saying there are no bad eggs among Fulani, Hausa or other Northern ethnic groups,” Chubado stated.

“However, criminals should be treated as criminals and not profiled based on ethnicity or religion. We are calling on the authorities to call Igboho to order.”

The organisation expressed concern over what it described as a recurring trend of associating Fulani communities with criminal activities without sufficient evidence, warning that such narratives could fuel hostility and provoke violence.

It further urged political leaders, security agencies and community stakeholders to promote unity and avoid statements capable of inflaming ethnic divisions.

The group reaffirmed its opposition to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and all forms of criminality, insisting that efforts to tackle insecurity must focus on justice, fairness and respect for the rule of law.