Kano, Nigeria – July 28, 2024
Tensions are rising in Northern Nigeria as prominent Hausa groups have started to publicly distance themselves from the Fulani, sparking a heated debate over regional representation and unity. This development has led to a significant outcry, with many questioning the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) as the true representative body of the North.
The growing divide was brought to the forefront during a recent gathering in Kano, where key Hausa leaders expressed their dissatisfaction with the current political and social dynamics. They accused the Fulani-dominated leadership of the ACF of marginalizing Hausa interests and failing to address critical issues affecting their communities.
“The Arewa Consultative Forum no longer represents the diverse interests of the Northern region,” declared Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, a prominent Hausa community leader. “The Hausa people have been systematically sidelined, and it is time for us to assert our own identity and demand fair representation.”
These sentiments have been echoed by various Hausa organizations, which argue that the Fulani’s influence within the ACF has led to policies that disproportionately benefit their own communities while neglecting the broader needs of the North. Issues such as security, economic development, and political inclusion have been cited as areas where Hausa interests have been overlooked.
In response to these allegations, ACF spokesperson Garba Shehu defended the forum’s track record and reiterated its commitment to representing all Northern ethnic groups fairly. “The ACF has always strived to promote unity and development across the entire Northern region. These accusations are unfounded and only serve to sow discord among our people,” Shehu stated.
The Hausa-Fulani divide has deep historical roots, but recent events have exacerbated the tensions. Incidents of violence between Fulani herders and Hausa farmers have increased, leading to a breakdown in trust and cooperation. Additionally, political maneuvering at both local and national levels has further strained relations.
Civil society organizations and analysts have called for urgent dialogue and reconciliation efforts to bridge the growing rift. “The unity of the North is crucial for the stability and progress of Nigeria as a whole,” said Dr. Aminu Mohammed, a political analyst at Bayero University, Kano. “We need inclusive platforms where all voices can be heard and addressed.”
As the situation continues to unfold, there is a growing demand for a more representative and inclusive leadership structure that genuinely reflects the diverse interests of Northern Nigeria. The coming weeks and months will be critical in determining whether these divides can be healed or if the region will face further fragmentation.
Muchee News
