The Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani Socio-cultural Association in Oyo State has appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to temper justice with mercy in the enforcement of the state’s anti-open grazing law through the Oyo State Rule of Law Agency.
Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the association’s state chairman, Alhaji Sanni Muhammed, lamented that many of their cows and members have been arrested, detained, and fined in recent months.
Muhammed claimed that over the past six months, Fulani herders across the state have faced what they considered as persecution by the agency.
He urged Governor Makinde to personally intervene to prevent an impending crisis, warning that the current enforcement approach could threaten the survival of their members in Oyo State.
He alleged that cattle ranches were often raided in the early hours of the morning, and accused individuals claiming to be state agents of demanding daily cash transfers from members under unclear circumstances.
“The enforcement of the new laws appears, in many cases, to be accompanied by acts that can only be described as discriminatory and unjust, creating fear and tension among our people.
“We believe firmly that no group of citizens should be subjected to discrimination, injustice or jungle justice.
“While we fully respect the authority of the Oyo State government to make laws, we appeal that such laws be implemented in a fair, transparent, and humán manner, without jeopardising the livelihood of an entire community.”
He added, “We are only appealing as loyal citizens for understanding, justice and protection. We urge your Excellency to direct relevant agencies to investigate the alleged illegal cash demand and harassment of our members.
“We call for the review of the enforcement approach of the anti-cattle rearing law to ensure it does not amount to targeted discrimination.
“We want you to engage in dialogue with our leadership to find peaceful, sustainable solutions that safeguard both public interest and the livelihood of our members,” he said.
Muhammed pledged that the group remains lawful, cooperative, and loyal to the administration and the laws of Oyo State. “We trust that in your wisdom and compassion, we will give urgent attention to this clarion call before the situation escalates.”
He stressed the group’s pride as “law-abiding, peace-loving and responsible citizens who have, over the years, contributed to the economy and food supply of our dear state.”
Also, the South-West Women Leader of the association, Hajia Aminat Idris and chairman of the National Association of Cattle Dealers Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, Alhaji Dauda Adebayo, said as a Nigerian and law-abiding citizen of the state, they also contributed to the socio-economic development of the state.
The duo, however, said the association would shut down all cattle markets across the state if the government fails to attend to their plight within two weeks.
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