A Fulani resident of Bokkos in Plateau State, Saleh Bago, has alleged that residents do not consider them as part of the state and frequently discriminate against them.
Bago made these remarks during a town hall meeting with stakeholders in the state hosted by News Central TV on Thursday, June 13.
He cited incidents such as cattle theft and violence against Fulanis, calling for recognition and equal opportunities in political positions to foster peace.
His words:
“We have lived in Plateau all our lives, yet we have not been issued with indigenous status forms,” Bago stated.
“Local residents steal our cattle. Just three days ago, security forces apprehended six individuals from Mangu who had stolen our livestock. Many Fulanis have lost their lives in Bokkos.
“Plateau locals discriminate against the Fulanis. If we desire peace, we must confront the reality. The Fulanis are denied opportunities to hold significant political positions.
“We must collectively address these issues in Plateau State. Plateau locals are self-serving, and if they abandon this attitude and befriend the Fulanis, peace will prevail in Plateau.
“There were no reports of farm destruction in Mushere, yet Fulanis residing there have been forcibly displaced. Why? Such animosity does not benefit anyone.
“If we cannot live peacefully together, how can we expect the Fulanis to share crucial information with locals when they notice something wrong?”
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Information, Musa Ashoms, countered Bagu’s claims, stating that Fulanis have been appointed to key positions in the state.
News Central reports that ongoing violence in Plateau State has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of individuals and left numerous others injured in attacks.
The conflict has been linked to clashes between herders and farmers. However, many residents argue that the violence is not solely due to this issue but is primarily attributed to acts of terrorism by the Fulani militia, who are accused of forcibly occupying land.
