A Fulani youth organisation, Fulani Youths Say Bago Again, has expressed concern over what it described as the marginalisation o...
A Fulani youth organisation, Fulani Youths Say Bago Again, has expressed concern over what it described as the marginalisation of its members in political consultations and benefits within Niger State.
In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Comrade Sulaiman Rugga Ibrahim, the group said it has supported the administration of Governor Umar Mohammed Bago for more than two years through grassroots mobilisation, conflict mediation, and promotion of government programmes.
The organisation noted that since its formation, it has independently financed its activities while working to build grassroots support for the administration and promote peaceful coexistence among communities.
According to the statement, the group has also organised capacity-building initiatives, facilitated relationships with non-governmental organisations and government ministries, and awarded scholarships to more than 50 Fulani youths studying medical sciences.
However, the group alleged that despite its contributions, it has been excluded from political consultations and benefit distribution structures affecting Fulani communities in the state.
The statement claimed that certain opportunities and benefits, including resources for local government election activities, Hajj seats, Ramadan packages, motorcycles, and some political appointments, were allegedly distributed mainly among members of another group identified as Bago Ruga-Ruga.
The organisation expressed concern that such actions could undermine unity among Fulani groups in the state and potentially affect political support for the administration.
“This development is deeply concerning since we believe these actions may not reflect the governor’s directives,” the statement said, adding that votes from Fulani communities are not limited to members of any single organisation.
Despite the concerns, the group reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful engagement and lawful advocacy.
It said it would continue programmes aimed at promoting development among Fulani communities and supporting the Niger State government, while calling for fairness, inclusion, and justice in political engagement and benefit distribution.
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