The Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria has called on Fulani pastoralists across the South West to strengthen cooperation with security agencies and host communities in order to promote peace and improve security in the region.
The appeal was made in a statement issued in Kaduna by the group’s convener, Ibrahim Chubado, who responded to recent discussions around security concerns in parts of Oyo State.
Chubado urged herders engaged in legitimate livestock activities to continue supporting government efforts by sharing credible information that could help expose criminal elements operating in rural communities and grazing areas.
He stressed that ongoing security challenges in the South West should not be used to stereotype peaceful Fulani residents, adding that criminal acts must be addressed without ethnic or religious bias.
The group welcomed recent comments credited to Yoruba self determination advocate Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, describing them as helpful in reducing tension and encouraging better understanding between communities.
According to Chubado, such statements could support efforts to ease mistrust and strengthen dialogue between pastoralists and their host communities, particularly in parts of Oyo State such as Ibarapa and Oke Ogun.
He said Fulani pastoralists have continued to cooperate with security agencies through intelligence sharing that has assisted in tackling kidnapping and other forms of crime in several areas.
Chubado also noted that conflicts linked to farmer herder relations, including disputes over grazing, are often resolved through dialogue and established community mechanisms.
He appealed to government authorities, traditional rulers, youth groups and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of pastoral communities, noting that herders also face threats such as cattle rustling and violent attacks.
He added that peaceful Fulani residents remain committed to lawful economic activities and have no intention of disrupting peace in their host communities.
The convener emphasised that criminal behaviour should be treated as individual wrongdoing rather than being tied to ethnic or religious identity, urging Nigerians to avoid narratives that could deepen division or mistrust.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence, cooperation with security agencies and continued engagement with communities across the South West and other parts of the country, Zoyols News reports.
