By Luka Binniyat

KADUNA – Senator Shehu Sani, representing Kaduna Central in the Senate, Wednesday, met Fulani herdsmen’ leaders in their community in the forest, and appealed to them on the need for peace.

He then donated N1 million to the herdsmen, for the establishment of a mini ranch. He said he was sponsoring a bill at the National Assembly, “the Nomadic Development Commission bill, “that would take care of issues confronting the herdsmen.

Sani’s words: “I came into this bush, to keep my campaign promise of reporting regularly to you on my activities as a Senator, representing you at the National Assembly. I am also here to listen to your grievances. 

“The Fulani man, is seen as a trouble maker, a murderer and  someone who doesn’t  mean well for this country. I am also one of you and I am very disturbed by this development. The Fulani have been great contributors to civilisation, to learning, and in the spread of religion throughout Nigeria, West Africa and beyond.

I am here to advise you to do everything within your capacity to respect the laws of the land and to live in peace with your neighbours. We must restore the good image of the Fulani. If you are offended, let the world know about your grievance and be law abiding in seeking justice.

“I have already introduced a bill at the Senate that will take care of your basic problems once and for all. It is called the Nomadic Development Commission Bill. This bill seeks to empower you and will provide technical support that will make you move your herds without clashing with anyone. And it will make it possible for you to access loans and other assistance that will improve your wellbeing and herds.

“In the meantime, I am giving you one million Naira, to set up a small grazing area. I shall also sink boreholes  and assist your women to acquire  skills,  as well as give them start-up funds”,

Speaking, Chairman, Miyetti Allah Cattle Herders Association, North West zone, Ardo Ahamadu Suleiman, complained about the high rate of abduction of elderly Fulani men and young women. .

He said: “There is no day that an elderly man and young woman are not kidnapped. It is not only in this Local Government, but all over the state. We have paid so much ransom that we don’t know what to do. Some families have sold all their cattle, including sheep and chicken to be able to pay ransom.

“Right now they holding an old man and are asking for two million naira. Despite that, they still come over and raid our cows. As if that is not enough, we cannot move our animals freely without farmers accusing us of trespassing. So, we are asking the government to find a place that we can carry out modern ranching. We are tired of wandering.”