By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Sarkin Fulani of Kwara, Alhaji Abdullahi Mahmud has appealed to the Kwara Government to formally engage local Fulani youths as vigilantes and forest guards to help combat insecurity in the State.
Mahmud stated this on Monday in Ilorin during a news conference organised on the sidelines of a meeting organised for Fulani people inn Kwara and Southwest Nigeria.
He explained that the Fulanis as a nomadic group understand the forest terrain better than external security forces.
He also appealed to the State government to strengthen security presence and support community-based policing.
The Fulani community leader lamented that his younger brother’s wife and three children were abducted by suspected kidnappers who are reportedly demanding ₦60 million for their release.
He also decried what he called persistent attacks on his community, alleging that armed bandits frequently invade their homes, kill residents, and disrupt daily life.
Mahmud emphasized that strong cooperation between communities and the police, backed by local intelligence and government support, remains the most effective path to restoring lasting peace.
“We are frustrated at being labeled criminals despite being also victims. These criminals are not known to the community and should not be used to tarnish the reputation of my people,” he said.
Beyond insecurity, the community leader highlighted challenges faced by pastoralists, noting that there is insufficient land for grazing livestock.
He said the lack of designated grazing areas has forced herders into difficult situations and appealed to authorities to provide solutions that would prevent conflict and protect livelihoods.
“We are peaceful people and do not want our name tarnished. We will remain peaceful and law abiding citizens,” he said.
Mahmud urged the government to act swiftly to rescue abducted victims, restore security, and address long-standing land and safety concerns.
He urged authorities to protect innocent citizens while isolating criminal elements.
