Everything you need to know about the Fulani herdsmen crisis and why it is such a big deal
Since 2015, Fulani herdsmen have been accused of kidnappings, killings, banditry and other criminal activities in their host communities
Why is it such a big deal?
Farmers are being attacked and killed while major highways in the country are no longer safe to travel. Cases of kidnappings and killings are recorded daily.
How many casualties so far?
The International Committee on Nigeria says between 2001-2019 herdsmen have participated in the killing of over 17,000 across Nigeria. The 2020 Global Terrorism Index (GTI) also says Fulani extremists were responsible for 26% of terror-related deaths in Nigeria in 2019, at 325 fatalities.
Who are the high profile victims?
Olu Falae – a former secretary to the government of the federation abducted on his Akure farm by herdsmen in 2015.
Funke Olakunrin – daughter of Reuben Fasoranti, Afenifere leader, shot dead in 2019 by suspected herdsmen along Benin-Ore highway.
Musa Umar – district head of Daura (Buhari’s hometown and father-in-law to his ADC) abducted in 2019
Catholic Priests – between 2015 and 2020, many Catholic priests were kidnapped and killed.
What did victims say?
Prof. Olayinka Adegbehingbe of Obafemi Awolowo University who paid N5m to regain freedom in 2019 said his abductors were heavily armed herdsmen. Afenifere spokesperson Yinka Odumakin said Fasoranti’s daughter was killed by Fulani herdsmen based on accounts of all eyewitnesses.
Adamawa vigilante youth leader, Saidu Hamman-Girei, told The Punch that some members of Miyetti Allah are responsible for kidnappings
What did Miyetti Allah say?
Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has said Fulani herdsmen are not criminals.
What has the Police done?
In July 2019, Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, ordered an overhaul of security across southern Nigeria.
So what is the government doing?
In May 2019, the Federal Government held a closed-door meeting with leaders of Miyetti Allah to resolve the crisis. The government has, however, been accused of not not doing enough to end the crisis.
And how has that worked out?
The moves by the government and security operatives have failed to end the atrocities of the herdsmen.
So what’s going to happen now?
Since it appears the federal government in charge of the nation’s security is not taking enough action, southwest governors are taking action to protect their people, starting with the establishment of Amotekun in January 2020.
