Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has asked the federal and state governments to adopt measures to halt what it described as the harassment of the Fulani herdsmen and their cattle.
in a statement issued by its Deputy Convener, Amb. Yahaya Kwande on Friday, the group also urged them to de-escalate inciting rhetorics regarding the now-suspended Ruga Project designed for the settlement of herders across the country.
The Forum asked the country to remain sensitive to its rising deficits in the security of lives and economic assets. The statement partly read:
“Federal and State governments must adopt policies and positions which address the harassment of Fulani and their cattle, de-escalation of inciting rhetorics and actions and short and long-term solutions to the problems which could damage the livestock industry, worsen community relations and threaten national security.
“The nation should remain sensitive to its rising deficits insecurity of lives and economic assets, and must do everything possible not to escalate tensions and distrust among Nigerians.”
The Forum also said it had taken note of the diverse positions adduced by groups and interests from the South and those from Northern Nigeria.
