We’re unjustly treated, Miyetti Allah cries out; sets up legal committee to seek redress

The Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, a Fulani socio-cultural association, has set up a 55-member legal committee to address the injustices faced by its members across the nation.

While vowing to ensure cessation of such injustices which listed to include unjust detention and imprisonment of members or outright victimisation just because they are Fulani, the group said they will achieve their goal through non-violent means.

Two additional committees on enlightenment and nomadic education were inaugurated to tackle education and social cohesion challenges.

This was the outcome of the association’s annual general meeting held in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa state.

The association highlighted the ongoing incarceration of Fulani cattle herders in the country, leading to the formation of the 55-member legal team to intervene on behalf of herdsmen currently serving unjust prison sentences.

Speaking at the AGM, the National President of the association, Alhaji Abdullahi Bodejo, said that treating all Fulani herders as criminals is unjust and based on false premise. The legal team’s mandate is to provide legal assistance to unfairly treated herders who have been humiliated and imprisoned in their own country.

Bodejo urged herders to live harmoniously with other Nigerians to reduce accusations and arrests by security agencies. He also warned that the association would not assist those who incite trouble among fellow citizens and are subsequently arrested by security forces.

“We have many of our kinsmen unjustly imprisoned across the nation. They are arrested and jailed for simply herding their cattle in grazing areas. Others are detained merely because they are of Fulani ethnicity,” Bodejo stated.

He said that the association does not promote violence and is committed to a united and peaceful Nigeria, adding that those involved in causing unjustified trouble will not receive legal support from the association.

Hajiya Aisha Bala Muhammed, the First Lady of Bauchi State and Matron of the Association, echoed these sentiments, stressing that crime involves individuals from all ethnic backgrounds and that Fulani herders should not be singled out.

She encouraged association members to prioritize educating their children and wards, as this can significantly reduce crime in society.

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, represented by Karu LGA Chairman James Thomas, expressed the state government’s continued support for the association in addressing matters affecting its members.