The Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association, a Fulani group, has voiced strong opposition to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s recent directive for security forces to use lethal force against individuals caught damaging farmlands. In a statement released Wednesday, the organization urged the governor to withdraw what it describes as an excessive order that could worsen the state’s security situation.
Governor Mutfwang issued the command during a security meeting on Tuesday, instructing law enforcement agents to take harsh action against criminals, particularly those targeting farming communities and destroying agricultural resources. However, the Fulani association argued that this approach is one-sided and discriminatory.
National President Dr. Muh’d Hussaini Buzaye criticized the governor for focusing solely on farmland destruction while failing to address attacks on herders and their livestock. He claimed that the state government has shown indifference toward the safety of Fulani residents, pointing to incidents of cattle rustling, livestock poisoning, and killings of herders that remain unchecked.
The group called for equal application of justice, insisting that any security measure must be enforced impartially across all communities. They emphasized that comparable actions should be taken against those involved in stealing cattle, poisoning animals, blocking roads unlawfully, assaulting innocent people, destroying military posts, and other violent acts threatening peace.
Buzaye highlighted the persistent loss of life and property suffered by Fulani members, noting that many herders are attacked while going about their daily routines. He described the recurring theft and destruction of livestock as a grave humanitarian and security crisis that demands immediate government intervention.
The association also expressed alarm over increasing hate speech, ethnic incitement, and divisive rhetoric within communities, which it says fuels tension and distrust. They demanded that anyone engaging in such behavior be held accountable, regardless of their background.
In conclusion, the Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful coexistence and called on all stakeholders in Plateau State to collaborate with the government and security agencies to tackle insecurity, rebuild trust, and foster unity among all communities in the state and across Nigeria.