Amid rising tensions between herders and farmers across Nigeria, Fulani leaders have called for direct representation in government decision-making processes to address issues affecting their communities.
The demand was a key resolution at a one-day workshop organized by the Fulbe Development and Cultural Organisation (FUDECO) in Ilorin, where stakeholders discussed pastoralist challenges, media representation, and the need for inclusive governance.
Fulani leaders at the event expressed frustration over what they described as persistent negative media portrayals, arguing that the ethnic group is often unfairly labeled as violent.
Dr. Emmanuel Wirkon, guest speaker at the workshop, challenged this perception, describing the Fulani as “one of Nigeria’s most peaceful tribes,” whose traditional livelihood revolves around cattle-rearing rather than conflict.
“The media often highlights isolated incidents involving herders but ignores the vast majority of Fulani who are law-abiding citizens,” Wirkon said. “This skewed narrative fuels ethnic profiling and complicates peaceful coexistence.”
Speakers at the event praised Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his efforts in minimizing farmer-herder clashes through dialogue and infrastructure such as nomadic schools.
Hon. Saliu Umar Sanda, FUDECO’s Kwara chairman, emphasized that the workshop was organized to “tell their own story” and counter misconceptions.
“We are not troublemakers,” Sanda insisted. “The Fulani are peaceful people who contribute to the economy through livestock. What we seek is fair representation and understanding.”
Represented by his Senior Adviser, Alhaji Saadu Salahu, Governor AbdulRazaq reiterated the importance of ethnic harmony for development.
“Progress is only possible in an atmosphere of peace,” he said. “We must continue to engage all groups in constructive dialogue.”
The Emir of Ilorin’s representative, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, echoed the sentiment, urging all communities in Kwara to prioritize peaceful coexistence.
Beyond media representation, FUDECO’s discussions highlighted the need for policymakers to consult Fulani leaders before implementing regulations affecting pastoralists—particularly on grazing, land use, and security matters.
Participants argued that such inclusion would prevent policies that inadvertently escalate conflicts.
As Nigeria grapples with farmer-herder violence, the Kwara workshop serves as a reminder that sustainable solutions require not just government action but also fair representation and accurate storytelling.
