Fulani Youth Leader Declares: “No One Can Chase Us Out of Plateau

A Fulani youth leader in Plateau State, Hamisu Garba, has declared that no group or individual can intimidate or expel the Fulani people from the state, asserting their rightful place as citizens. In an exclusive interview, Garba expressed deep concern over growing tensions and what he described as persistent efforts to marginalize and stigmatize Fulani communities in the state.

Garba emphasized that he and many other Fulani were born and raised in Plateau and have known no other home. Citing the Nigerian constitution, he argued that anyone born in a state and with valid documentation has every right to claim it as their state of origin. “I was born in Plateau State. I have my indigene form signed by both my district head and local government chairman. My parents and siblings were also born and raised here,” he said.

He questioned why the Fulani are being singled out and targeted, despite the presence of criminal elements in all ethnic groups. “There are criminals in every tribe — Mwaghavul, Berom, Tarok, Ngas, Irigwe, Mupun — not just Fulani. Why is all the focus on us?” he asked.

Garba acknowledged that some herders have caused problems but rejected the idea that all Fulani people should be labeled as criminals or troublemakers. He revealed that investigations by Fulani youth groups have shown that some attacks on communities are not solely carried out by Fulani, and in some cases, local collaborators have been involved for as little as N20,000.

Reflecting on the past, Garba spoke of a time when Fulani and native communities lived peacefully, celebrating religious and cultural festivals together, intermarrying, and sharing everyday life. “We all lived in peace. I don’t know when the battle line was drawn. Suddenly, the Fulani became an endangered species to be exterminated and chased out,” he said.

He reiterated the Fulani community’s resolve to remain in Plateau State and continue working toward peaceful coexistence. “We have been educating our people to live in peace with others. We want the same from other communities. Not all Fulani are criminals. We just want to be left alone and allowed to live as citizens of this state,” Garba concluded.