By Khalid Idris Doya
The Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the continued stigmatisation and stereotyping of Fulani people across the country, describing the trend as dangerous and unjust.
Speaking during the formal launch of the association and the inauguration of its state and zonal executives at Zaranda Hotel, Bauchi, on Sunday, the national President, Alhaji Mohammed Hussaini Buzaye, lamented that the criminalisation of the Fulani ethnic group has led to hate, isolation, and indiscriminate attacks resulting in the loss of innocent lives and destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
According to him, the Fulani communities across Nigeria are grappling with multiple challenges, including environmental degradation, desertification, climate change, community clashes, cattle rustling, unfair treatment by law enforcement agencies, animal diseases, and limited access to grazing reserves, water points, and cattle routes.
Sarkin Fulanin Buzaye said the association was established to champion the welfare, rights, and development of Fulbe communities nationwide while fostering understanding and cooperation among Nigerians.
"Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association of Nigeria is a national body committed to the advancement of Fulanis everywhere. We aim to sensitise and inspire our youths to reject criminality, become model citizens, and act as agents of peace and national development," he stated.
The association appealed to government institutions, civil society organisations, and the general public to stop stigmatising the Fulani people for the actions of a few individuals and to ensure that perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice individually rather than punishing entire communities.
Hussaini urged newly inaugurated leaders to discharge their duties with humility, transparency, and accountability, describing their positions as a trust to serve the people, not a platform for self-enrichment.
"Kautal Pulaaku will never compromise with anyone who engages in criminal acts. They must be dealt with under the law. But justice must be individualised, innocent people should not be demonised, and entire communities must not be collectively punished," he said.
The president also unveiled the association's plans to strengthen leadership capacity at state and local government levels, launch public awareness campaigns against unlawful behavior, empower youths and women, and improve access to education and healthcare for Fulani communities.
He further announced plans to establish a legal aid and human rights desk to defend members facing injustice or false accusations, especially those languishing in prisons without trial.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Livestock Development, Hussaini said the initiative would help address long-standing challenges confronting Fulani pastoralists by introducing robust livestock management policies.
He also appreciated Senator Shehu Buba, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Security, for his relentless support and cooperation, and extended gratitude to former Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isah Yuguda, the association's national patron, for his 'fatherly guidance and mentorship.'
During the event, the association presented awards of excellence to distinguished Nigerians, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, former Governor Malam Isah Yuguda, Amb. (Rtd.) Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and Senator Shehu Buba Umar, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to peace, security, and community development.
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