Hamisu Garba, a Fulani youth leader in Plateau State, has firmly rejected calls for the expulsion of Fulani communities from the state, insisting they are legitimate citizens with deep roots in the region.
In an interview, Garba emphasised that many Fulani people, including himself, were born and raised in Plateau and have no other home.
Garba, who holds an indigene certificate signed by local authorities, questioned why Fulani residents are being unfairly targeted. “I attended primary, secondary, and university in Plateau.
The only time I left was for youth service in Enugu,” he said. “Where do they expect us to go?” He acknowledged that while criminal elements exist among Fulani herders, the same is true for other ethnic groups in the state, including the Mwaghavul, Berom, and Tarok communities.
The Fulani youth leader dismissed claims that all banditry in Plateau is perpetrated by Fulani people, revealing that investigations have implicated some natives as informants. He recalled a time of peaceful coexistence, where inter-ethnic friendships and marriages were common, but lamented the recent escalation of tensions.
Garba called for balanced dialogue, urging other communities to promote harmony rather than scapegoating Fulani residents. “We’ve been educating our people on peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
“We just want to be left alone.” Fulani youth leader’s remarks highlight growing ethnic divisions in Plateau, where recurring violence has fueled distrust. As tensions persist, Garba’s message underscores the need for inclusive solutions that recognise the rights of all long-term residents, regardless of ethnicity.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
