Leadership of the Council of Fulani Chiefs in South-West Nigeria
Council of Fulani Chiefs in South-West Nigeria has firmly dissociated itself from individuals currently under investigation for alleged kidnapping activities in Ogun State, stressing that criminal acts should not be used to label the entire Fulani community.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of the Council and Sarkin Fulani of Lagos, Alhaji Mohammed Bambado II, said the Fulani leadership in the region remains committed to peace, security and lawful coexistence with other ethnic groups.
The council condemned kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery and other forms of criminality, maintaining that such acts are contrary to the values and traditions of the Fulani people.
“The Council neither condones nor supports any form of criminality, including kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, or any activity that threatens the peace and security of our communities,” the statement read.
Bambado noted that allegations against certain suspects should be treated as individual matters and not extended to an entire ethnic group or its traditional institutions.
“Criminal conduct is personal and remains the responsibility of those found culpable through due process of law,” he added.
The council expressed support for ongoing efforts by security agencies to tackle crime across the South-West and called on residents to collaborate with law enforcement authorities by providing credible information that could aid investigations and improve public safety.
It also urged media organisations and members of the public to exercise caution in their reporting and public comments, warning against ethnic profiling and narratives capable of creating tension among communities that have coexisted peacefully for decades.
According to the statement, the Fulani community remains dedicated to lawful economic activities and continues to contribute to the growth and development of the South-West region and Nigeria at large.
“We reaffirm our commitment to supporting lawful measures that promote peace, security, and unity across the region,” the statement added.
The council reiterated its call for unity, mutual respect and collective efforts toward maintaining peace and stability across the country.
