Kaduna, Nigeria – Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has issued a stark warning to the people of Southern Kaduna, stating that they will continue to face violence if they attack Fulani herdsmen. El-Rufai made the statement during an interview on Monday, addressing the ongoing clashes between farmers and herders in the region.
The former governor’s comments have sparked outrage and condemnation, with many accusing him of being insensitive to the plight of the Southern Kaduna people, who have suffered repeated attacks and killings.
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El-Rufai’s Statement
El-Rufai, who is known for his controversial remarks, argued that the violence in Southern Kaduna is a result of retaliatory attacks by Fulani herdsmen. He claimed that the herders often respond with force when their livestock or families are attacked.
“If the people of Southern Kaduna continue to attack Fulani herdsmen, they will keep getting killed. The herders will retaliate, and the cycle of violence will continue,” El-Rufai said.
He also called for dialogue and peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, emphasizing the need for both sides to respect each other’s rights.
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Background of the Crisis
Southern Kaduna has been a hotspot of violent clashes between farmers and herders for years, with hundreds of lives lost and communities displaced. The conflict is often attributed to competition over land and resources, as well as ethnic and religious tensions.
Despite efforts by the government and security agencies to restore peace, the violence has persisted, leaving many residents in fear for their lives.
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Reactions from Stakeholders
El-Rufai’s statement has been met with widespread criticism, with many accusing him of blaming the victims and ignoring the root causes of the conflict.
“El-Rufai’s comments are insensitive and unhelpful. Instead of blaming the victims, he should focus on finding solutions to the crisis,” said Dr. John Danfulani, a human rights activist from Southern Kaduna.
Others have called for a more balanced approach to addressing the conflict, urging the government to hold all perpetrators of violence accountable, regardless of their ethnicity or occupation.
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Calls for Peace and Justice
Stakeholders have emphasized the need for dialogue, justice, and equitable resource sharing to end the violence in Southern Kaduna. They have also called on the government to provide adequate security for affected communities and address the underlying causes of the conflict.
“The people of Southern Kaduna deserve peace and security. The government must take decisive action to end the violence and ensure justice for all,” said a community leader.
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Nasir El-Rufai’s warning to the people of Southern Kaduna has reignited debates about the farmer-herder crisis and the government’s role in resolving it. As the violence continues to claim lives and displace communities, the focus will be on finding lasting solutions to the conflict and ensuring peace and justice for all.
For now, the people of Southern Kaduna remain caught in a cycle of violence, with no end in sight.
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