By Sunday Ameh
The Fulani Youths Movement, FYM, has warned ethnic youths in Plateau State against attacks on Fulani herders, saying it will no longer remain silent over what it described as the killing of innocent members of the community.
The group issued the warning in a communiqué signed by its convener, Adams Jouro, after its inaugural meeting held in Jos on Friday.
The FYM expressed concern over what it described as the increasing attacks and killings of Fulani herders in several communities across the state, particularly in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bassa, Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.
According to the group, Fulani communities have suffered significant losses despite reports that often portray the Fulani as perpetrators of violence in the state.
Jouro alleged that hundreds of herders had been killed while thousands of cattle had either been killed or stolen since the beginning of the year.
He said, “Contrary to biased media reports pushed out daily, the Fulani herding communities have suffered more in the hands of local ethnic gangs, especially the Berom Militias.”
He added that similar incidents had been recorded in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos, Bassa, Jos South, Mangu and other parts of the state.
The group, however, acknowledged that criminal elements exist among the Fulani, stressing that such individuals should not be used to justify attacks against innocent members of the community.
“We will no longer sit back and watch innocent herders killed for the sins of a few criminals,” Jouro said.
The FYM called on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to establish independent investigation panels to assess the extent of losses suffered by Fulani communities and ensure that victims receive justice.
The group said the continued attacks and destruction of livelihoods must stop, adding, “For now, we say enough is enough.”
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