Group cautions Kogi communities against selling land to Fulani herders

Kogi

Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun

By Richard Elesho

A group, Bunu Initiative Generation (BIG) has called on the people, leaders traditional rulers of Bunu communities in Kabba-Bunu local government area of Kogi state to work harmoniously with non-citizens residing with them, especially the Fulanis.

In a position paper signed by Engr. John Ibishagba and Mr. Abayomi Eniwaye, its President, and Secretary respectively, the group called for dialogue, cultural understanding, and collaborative economic development to foster a united and prosperous community

The group, however, urged leaders and citizens of the area to ensure that all land within the confines of Bunuland is not sold to the Fulanis (Bororos) so as not to give them any sense of being an owner of any space within area.

They noted that, though Bunu people are peace-loving, hardworking, tolerant, and highly hospitable, with no records of hostility toward any strangers in their land, any community that seeks to allow the Fulanis, Bororos, within their domain should notify Bunu Traditional Council of their willingness to allow such.

“Such group of Fulani, Bororos, shall submit the leader/head of their group, for profiling by the community and security agencies.

“The area to be allocated to them shall be clearly marked out with their coordinates taken, which shall be attached to the agreement.

“An agreement shall be signed between the community and the heads of the Fulani group and it shall be stated in clear terms that the land being allocated to them is not for sale but they shall pay royalties to the community as may be determined and agreed.

“If in any event additional members of their group is joining them within the confine of the areas allocated to them, the head of their group shall inform the community with immediate effect.

“We can allow them to settle on any land in Bunuland through an arrangement that will allow their activities to be monitored. Any land or areas allocated to them shall be for temporary settlement, farming, or any lawful commercial activities,” the group said.

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BIG explained that for generations, Bunu indigenes have welcomed other tribes in their diversity, creating an environment for mutual prosperity, peaceful coexistence, and cultural and religious growth.

“Historically, the hospitable Bunu people have welcomed sojourners such as the Bororos, Agatus, Bassa, and other tribes with open arms as they engaged in legitimate commercial activities, farming, hunting, and other business ventures throughout our land, bringing significant economic benefits.

“Several groups, particularly the Fulanis fondly referred to as Bororos, the Agatus, and others, have become integral parts of our daily lives. Each group has operated within the bounds of the law. However, recent security tensions, as witnessed in other parts of the state, have led to strained relationships, apprehensions, and fears, resulting in a high level of insecurity within Bunuland.

“However, recent developments in our communities, particularly those involving Fulani herdsmen, bandits, and other security threats, pose a serious breach to the peaceful coexistence and security of lives and property in our motherland.

“Despite the shared economic benefits of this coexistence, these security challenges canhot be overlooked, as they have negatively impacted the progress, social stability, and psychological well-being of our people. If these security issues are not addressed and solutions sought from their root causes, our ancestral homes—land that our forefathers labored for and left to us—may be taken away. We pray this will never be our fate.

“Our call arises from the current tensions that have led to the loss of lives among our gallant security personnel, and the urgent need to put an end to this disturbing trend necessitates the submission of this position paper for critical consideration by all of us.

“At BIG, we support peaceful coexistence with any individual or group that chooses to reside within our community, provided that they are willing to respect our cultural values and adhere to the established rules for harmonious living.

“We acknowledge the experiences of other regions in Nigeria, particularly in the North Central Zone, where issues such as land disputes and forced evictions have arisen. It is important to recognize that these challenges can sometimes manifest through intimidation and violence, leading to the gradual appropriation of land.

“While we respect the freedom of movement within our nation, we believe it is essential to establish effective measures that protect our ancestral homes and ensure the integrity of our community. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, we can work together to prevent the recurrence of such challenges and promote a secure and prosperous environment for all,” the group explained.

BIG stated that peaceful coexistence between Fulani and other community members is achievable through mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation.