Former Kaduna State senator, Shehu Sani, has raised concerns over the growing perception of Fulani people as criminals, attributing it to the ongoing banditry crisis in Northern Nigeria.

He warned that the actions of bandits, who are predominantly young Fulani men, have led to widespread suspicion and discrimination against the entire ethnic group.

Speaking at his residence while addressing a group of university students from the region, Sani emphasized the brutality of banditry, describing it as a menace that has devastated key sectors of the northern economy.

“They rape women. They burn down houses. They attack churches, attack mosques, attack commuters, extort money from farmers,” he lamented.

“Farmers have to pay fines and taxes just to go to their farms.”

The former senator highlighted the far-reaching effects of banditry, noting that agriculture, education, and small businesses have suffered greatly.

“Their activities have destroyed agriculture in the northern part of Nigeria. Their activities have destroyed catering. Their activities have destroyed education. Many schools are now closed,” he stated.

Sani called on educated Fulani youth to actively engage with their communities and discourage criminality.

He stressed that years of banditry have only brought suffering to the Fulani people rather than prosperity.

“You have a duty and responsibility as educated Fulanis of which we are two here to reach out to your people and tell them that crime does not pay,” he urged.

“Ten to fifteen years of banditry has not produced one billionaire among the bandits. It has destroyed the lives of Fulani people. It has even destroyed our image and reputation.”

Sani warned that due to the actions of a criminal few, the entire Fulani community is now viewed with suspicion.

“Because of the criminality of these bandits who are mostly Fulani every Fulani man is now being seen as a bandit,” he said.

“Today, someone might look at your face and assume you are a bandit simply because of your ethnic group.”

He pointed out that despite the criminal activities of some, many Fulani professionals have made significant contributions to Nigeria in various fields.

“There are Fulani doctors, engineers, architects, professors, and businessmen whose image is being unfairly tainted,” he said. “How does that help us?”

Concluding his address, Sani charged the students with the responsibility of changing the narrative and restoring peace to the region.

Every Fulani identity now tied to banditry – Shehu Sani