*Tackles insecurity through modern cattle rearing
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Kwara State Government, has pledged to prioritise the education of Fulani herders’ children as part of efforts to curb insecurity and nurture future leaders.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy, Abdulsalam Atiku, made this known at a security meeting organised by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Ilorin, which brought together herders, security agencies and stakeholders from the 16 local government areas of the state.
The governor stressed that ignorance is a major factor pushing young people into crime, noting that education remains the most powerful tool to check such tendencies.
“When Fulani children are educated, they will not be easy recruits for criminal gangs,” Atiku said.
He added that government, was encouraging herders to adopt modern methods of livestock management to reduce the recurring farmers-herders clashes.
“Roaming with cattle is outdated. Embracing modern ranching methods will not only improve productivity but also enhance peaceful coexistence,” he said.
On her part, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Herdsmen and Community Outreach, Hajiya Aishatu Baruten, reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring security in every part of the state.
She appealed to Fulani communities to work closely with authorities in maintaining peace and order.
Also speaking, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing Banni/Adena constituency, Saidu Baba, described insecurity as a nightmare to both the state and the country.
“Banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling must be confronted with the full weight of the law. We in the legislature will continue to make laws that strengthen security and protect lives,” he assured.
The Kwara Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Shehu Garba, lamented that insecurity has crippled the livelihood of herders. “If urgent steps are not taken, livestock farming may collapse in this state and beyond,” he warned, while urging herders to support government’s peace initiatives.
In the same vein, the Fulani leader in Kwara, Alhaji Ojonla Mahmud, represented by Ali Muhammed Jowuro, assured that Fulani herders would give maximum cooperation to security agencies. He advised them to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements promptly.
Earlier, the state secretary of MACBAN, Abdulazeez Mohammed, explained that the meeting was convened to highlight the worsening plight of herders, particularly in Kwara South. He said many communities had been deserted out of fear of abduction, while others had lost their means of livelihood.
“Fulani are often seen as troublemakers, but in reality, we are also victims. We want peace and security so that our people can return to their homes,” he said.
Mohammed appealed to stakeholders to rally behind government efforts to restore peace, stressing that only collective action can end the cycle of violence.
