An Open Letter to South-West Leaders: A Call to Action Against Fulani Herdsmen’s Brutality
Dear esteemed leaders of the South-West region,
I write to you today with a heavy heart, bearing the weight of devastating experiences and the cries of my people. The relentless killing and kidnapping of our sons and daughters by Fulani herdsmen have become an unbearable burden.
My recent encounter with this brutality has left me shaken and compelled to urge you to take immediate action. When I embarked on a perilous journey to pay ransom for my kidnapped brother, I witnessed firsthand the trail of blood and tears left by these marauding herdsmen.
The gruesome killings in Ondo, Owo, Ekiti, Osun, and other parts of the South-West region have transformed our once peaceful roads into killing fields. The security apparatus, which should be our safeguard, has been compromised, and even the Amotekun, established to protect us, have been accused of being accomplices in some cases.
The Fulani herdsmen’s attacks are not mere incidents; they are a symptom of a larger problem and failure of leadership and governance. The Nigerian state’s inability to protect its citizens and address the root causes of these conflicts has created a power vacuum, allowing these armed groups to thrive.
We, the people of the South-West region, demand that you, our leaders, take concrete steps to *Establish a Regional Security Network* Collaborate with other regional leaders to create a robust security framework that protects our people and territories. Support Federal Government Initiatives and engage with them to ensure that their initiatives to address insecurity are effective and tailored to our regional needs.
Promote Community-Based Solutions* Encourage community-led initiatives that foster peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, and provide support for victims of these conflicts.
We cannot afford to sit idly while our people are being slaughtered and kidnapped on a daily basis. We are sitting on a keg of gunpowder, and it is your responsibility as leaders to take proactive measures to prevent a catastrophic explosion.
I implore you to treat this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. Our people are looking up to you for protection, guidance, and leadership.
Cc: Ooni of Ife
Cc; Alaafin of Oyo
Cc: Alake of Egbe land
Cc; Awujale of Ijebu Land
Cc; Deji of Akure
Cc; Oba of Lagos
E.Signed
Comrade Amos Ojajuni
