ASHENEWS reports that the South West Fulani chiefs are deeply concerned about the tragic killings of Ekiti traditional leaders and urge immediate action to address these acts of violence.
Chairman of the South West Council of Fulani chiefs and Sarkin Fulani of Lagos, Mohammed Bambado II, has expressed his worry over the escalation of criminal acts causing ethnic tensions.
He called on the government, security, and intelligence agencies to proactively address crime to prevent it from leading to ethnic and religious conflicts. Bambado II emphasized the importance of decisive action against criminality to foster unity among the people.
ALSO READ: Ekiti: Why killers of traditional rulers shouldn’t remain among community of humans” – Sultan
ALSO READ: Police parade suspect involved in killing of Ekiti monarch
These concerns were conveyed in a statement dated February 8, 2024, and released to the Nigerian Press by the Media Team of Sarkin Fulani of Lagos.
In the statement, Bambado II also addressed the tendency for quick judgment towards other ethnic groups based on media reports of criminal activities. He stressed that crime does not belong to any particular group and urged against ethnic profiling as a solution to security challenges.
Bambado II clarified the Fulani community’s commitment to peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria despite facing challenges. He emphasized that anyone, regardless of ethnic or religious background, who commits a crime should face consequences according to the law.
Regarding recent accusations and media portrayal of the Fulani community in the wake of crimes in the South West, the Chiefs urged everyone to refrain from jumping to conclusions without evidence and to work towards unity rather than division.
In light of the recent killings of two Ekiti traditional rulers, the Chiefs expressed condolences and condemned the acts strongly. They appreciated the efforts of the Ekiti State Police Command in clarifying the situation and preventing further ethnic tensions.
The South West Fulani Chiefs emphasized that crime is a societal issue, not tied to any particular group. They called for collaboration, respect for the law, and avoidance of unjust accusations to overcome challenges and make Nigeria a peaceful and prosperous nation for all.