Muslims across Nigeria, particularly the Fulani, express deep remorse as we condemn the brutal massacre of innocent Nigerians in Bassa and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau state. Every patriotic and peace-loving Nigerian must denounce this act, irrespective of religious, ethnic, or regional divides. As Hausa/Fulani individuals, we completely dissociate ourselves from the heartless assailants and urge the government to take necessary action to ensure those responsible face the full consequences of the law.
However, it is deeply concerning that an elder statesman like Dewan Kudangbena Gabriel, who holds a significant position in Plateau state as the speaker of the state’s legislature, has identified a specific ethnic group as being behind the massacre. This accusation is both uncalled for and condemnable, and it goes against the principles of our nation’s constitution. If Dewan can make such inflammatory statements in a volatile area like Plateau, who else has the credibility to promote calm in the situation? His remarks were direct and reckless, effectively urging Christians and other tribes in the state to resist the Fulani and take whatever measures necessary to protect their communities.
Therefore, we are calling on the federal government to hold Rt. Hon. Dewan Kudangbena Gabriel accountable. As a leader, he should retract such statements to promote peace and stability in the state. These allegations are baseless and violate the nation’s constitution; no one has the right to label a person, group, or tribe as terrorists without a ruling from a court of law. Why label the Fulani as terrorists? Does he possess any proven evidence linking them to the alleged attack?
Dewan’s selfishness and bigotry are evident in his comments, which could exacerbate tensions. The Hausa/Fulani have long been recognised as peace-loving people, and while every tribe has its share of problematic individuals, including those from Dewan’s own community who seek to incite violence for personal gain, it is unjust to label the Fulani as terrorists based on unsubstantiated claims.
In the light of this, we demand that the federal government compels Dewan to retract his statements for the sake of peace in the state. We cannot allow him to vilify the Fulani community based on unfounded allegations. While we condemn the massacre and mourn with the victims’ families, we also call for an immediate and thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
We believe in a united and peaceful Nigeria, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or regional affiliations. Every life is valuable, whether it belongs to a Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Ibibio, Idoma, or Ijaw individual, as well as members of other minor tribe