Benin Republic bans Fulani herdsmen from entering country, says BILMPAN

The National President of Bilital Maroobe Pastoralists Association of Nigeria (BILMPAN), Alhaji Ali Muhammad Rimindako, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently intervene in a law enacted by the Government of Benin Republic to stop Fulani cattle breeders from entering the country, except an official approval is given.

He made the call, yesterday, in Birnin Kebbi while delivering his speech at the official launching of a project for assisting families faced with cumulative effects of pastoral lean season, insecurity and COVID-19 pandemic in Kebbi State.

He explained that the organisation, established years ago, was aimed at promoting peace and unity in the Africa sub-region. And though four countries were originally involved in its establishment, it has expanded to include about 11 African countries, with Benin Republic being one of them.

“The association currently comprises Mali, Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Senegal, Benin Republic, Mauritania, Ghana, Chad and Cote d’Ivoire,” he said. He explained that it is only Benin Republic that has refused Fulani herdsmen entrance into the country.

“So, we are appealing to Kebbi State Governor, Senator Atiku Bagudu to pass this message to President Buhari to intervene, so that the law can be withdrawn for the progress, peace and promotion of the economy in the region,” he said.

Rimindako said his organisation was ready to work with security agencies to fish out criminal elements among them across the country.

He explained that his association had commenced advocacy and training of members to enable them embrace and restore peace and progress for the desired change in the country.

Also speaking, the National President of Miyyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), Alhaji Mohammed Kiruwa, said members of the association are cattle breeders and not kidnappers or killers.