The Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association of Nigeria has expressed concern over the continued stigmatisation and stereotyping of Fulani across the country.
It described the trend as dangerous and unjust.
At the launch of the association and the inauguration of its state and zonal executives at Zaranda Hotel, Bauchi, yesterday, its national president, Alhaji Mohammed Hussaini Buzaye, said the criminalisation of the Fulani ethnic group had led to hate, isolation and indiscriminate attacks resulting in the loss of innocent lives and destruction of property worth millions of naira.
Buzaye said the Fulani communities in Nigeria were 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.
He 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 Fulani 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 for the actions of a few individuals and to ensure that perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice individually rather than punishing entire communities.
“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.
During the event, the association presented awards to some eminent Nigerians, including Bauchi State governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, former governor of the state, Malam Isah Yuguda, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar (rtd), national security adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and Senator Shehu Buba Umar.
The awards were in recognition of their contributions to peace, security and community development.
