South-west Fulani council bans night grazing and firearms possession by herders

South-West Fulani Council Enforces Ban on Night Grazing and Firearms Possession by Herders

In a decisive move aimed at curbing insecurity and fostering peaceful coexistence, the Council of Fulani Chiefs in South-West Nigeria has announced a sweeping ban on night grazing, underage herding, and the possession of firearms by Fulani herders.

This resolution was made public during a press briefing held in Lagos, led by Mohammed Bambado, the Sarkin Fulani of Lagos and chairman of the council.

The council emphasized its unwavering commitment to ending the persistent herder-farmer clashes that have plagued the region. Bambado reaffirmed the council’s dedication to preserving the over 200-year history of harmonious relations between the Fulani and their host communities in the South-West. He described the decision as a necessary step to maintain peace and ensure the safety of all residents.

In addition to the ban, the council condemned all forms of banditry, kidnapping, and farmland destruction, distancing the Fulani community from such criminal activities. It called on the Office of the National Security Adviser to intensify efforts in identifying and prosecuting those responsible for these acts, including conspirators within host communities.

To bolster regional security, the council pledged to strengthen its partnership with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission). It also announced plans for a sensitization and engagement tour to educate herders on global best practices in livestock management and legal compliance.

Recognizing the role of education in mitigating insecurity, the council advocated for the revival of nomadic education centers across Fulani settlements. It warned that illiteracy remains a major driver of unrest, particularly in Northern Nigeria and Fulani communities in the South-West.

Further measures include the launch of a comprehensive data collection initiative for cattle farmers across the region. This effort aims to enhance documentation and support development planning. The council also declared a ban on violent Fulani festivals and carnivals, citing their potential to incite conflict and cause injuries or fatalities. These cultural practices, it argued, no longer align with the current security realities of Nigeria.

The council’s resolutions mark a significant shift in the approach to herder-related conflicts in the South-West, signaling a proactive stance by Fulani leadership to restore trust and promote lasting peace