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Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has condemned the negative portrayal of Fulanis, describing it as unwarranted.
According to Governor Yusuf, the Fulani community has been unfairly stereotyped, and their peaceful nature is often overlooked.
The governor’s comments come amid growing concerns about anti-Fulani sentiment in Nigeria. The Fulani people, a semi-nomadic ethnic group dispersed across several West African countries, have faced discrimination and hostility, particularly in Nigeria.¹
Governor Yusuf emphasized the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence among different communities in Kano State.
He urged Fulani residents to continue prioritizing peaceful coexistence with other communities, stating that their peaceful nature is key to state unity.
The governor’s call for peaceful coexistence is timely, given the recent rise in conflicts between Fulani herders and farmers in Nigeria. These conflicts have often been fueled by misinformation and stereotypes, leading to violence and loss of life.
Governor Yusuf’s comments also highlight the need to address the root causes of anti-Fulani sentiment.
The Fulani community has been accused of supporting Islamic terrorist groups, such as Boko Haram, although they themselves are often victims of terrorist attacks.
The negative portrayal of Fulanis has been perpetuated by various ethnonationalist groups and online media platforms. In 2016, the hashtag #fulaniherdsmen trended among Nigerian social media users, accompanied by anti-Fulani rhetoric.
As Governor Yusuf noted, it is essential to promote a more nuanced understanding of the Fulani community and their role in Nigerian society.
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