Governor Makinde warns against forceful removal of Fulani Herdsmen in Oyo

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has directed that individuals and groups planning to take actions that could lead to the forcible removal of Fulani herdsmen from Oyo State should desist from such actions, as defaulters would face the full wrath of the law.

Reacting to the alleged ultimatum given to Fulanis to leave the state by unauthorised individuals and groups, the Governor, in a broadcast, on Wednesday, affirmed that his administration would not sit back and watch anyone make any law-abiding resident of Oyo State feel unsafe in their homes, farms, or business places.

Makinde noted that the events of the past few weeks in the State had made it imperative for him to address issues that have to do with the internal security of the State, saying he also recently had cause to call out members of the Press, whom he said were allowing themselves to be used to stoke ethnic tensions among the people of the State.

He stated: “However, we cannot overlook the fact that there have indeed been instances that cause concern. The fragile peace between the herdsmen and farmers in Oke Ogun is being threatened. Individuals who are not authorised are going around chasing people from their homes and causing mayhem. This assault on residents of Oyo State is not the way to further the Yoruba cause.”

“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which I swore to defend and protect, guarantees freedom of movement in Section 41(1), such that citizens are free to reside in any part of the country without fear. We are determined to preserve that right in Oyo State,” Makinde stated.

The Governor further directed all Local Government and Local Council Development Area chairpersons to work with traditional rulers and officers of security agencies to ensure that peace is maintained in all parts of the State, while urging traditional rulers not to be part of any plans to disrupt the peaceful coexistence of residents of the State.

According to the Governor, the common enemy of the people is neither the Hausa Fulani who is looking for pasture for his flock, nor the farmer who just wants to grow food to sell in the market or to feed his family, but the hoodlums, cultists, armed robbers, kidnappers and bandits, who live among the people.

He said: “I must reiterate that we will not hesitate to take appropriate action against any individuals who try to disrupt the peace in Oyo State. Our administration is taking all necessary steps to protect the good people of Oyo State from harassment, thuggery and banditry. We believe we have the situation under control.”

“We have constitutionally empowered people who will arrest and prosecute these criminals. Our job, as active citizens, is to help them, where we can, to identify these enemies. Report any criminals and criminal activities you are privy to and let the authorities take action. If you see something, say something,” the Governor appealed.

Makinde acknowledged the efforts of some officers of the Nigeria Police Force who have resumed their constitutional duties of maintaining law and order in the State and encouraged the leadership of the Police to continue to collaborate with his administration to secure Oyo State.

He added that the collective efforts of citizens would keep the peace in the State and preserve the secure environment that has contributed to the growth of the State’s economy.

PIAK