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Emir of Zazzau Declares Fulani People Among Nigeria’s Most Educated, Rejects Violence Stereotypes

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 13th, 2024.

Emir of Zazzau Declares Fulani People Among Nigeria’s Most Educated, Rejects Violence Stereotypes

The Emir of Zazzau, Nuhu Bamali, has made a strong assertion about the Fulani community, claiming they rank among the best-educated groups in Nigeria.

Speaking at a cultural event hosted by the Fulani Development and Cultural Organisation (FUDECO), the Emir addressed the ongoing stigmatization linking Fulani herders to violence and banditry. He firmly rejected the narrative that associates the Fulani with armed conflict, stating, “A true Fulani man does not carry an AK-47.”

Bamali emphasized that traditional Fulani herders are equipped with a stick and a cutlass—tools meant for tending to livestock, not for inflicting harm. He insisted that the image of the Fulani as violent individuals misrepresents their cultural values and heritage.

“Carrying an AK-47 is contrary to the core values of a Fulani man. We are expected to use our stick and cutlass to care for our animals, not to engage in violence,” he affirmed.

Highlighting the educational accomplishments of the Fulani people, the Emir encouraged them to take pride in their heritage and cultural values while challenging the misconceptions that have led to their demonization. His remarks come at a critical time when the Fulani community has been central to national debates surrounding insecurity in Nigeria, with many attributing incidents of violence to Fulani herders.