THE FULANI MENACE IN NIGERIAN
The term "Fulani menace" is often used to describe the ongoing conflicts involving Fulani herders in Nigeria, particularly the violent clashes between Fulani pastoralists and farming communities. These conflicts, primarily centered in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and increasingly spreading to southern and northwestern regions, are complex, rooted in economic, environmental, social, and political factors. While the conflicts are frequently framed as ethnic or religious violence, they are driven by competition over land and resources, exacerbated by climate change, population growth, and governance challenges. Below is a detailed examination of the issue, drawing on available information, critically analyzing the situation, and addressing the complexities while avoiding oversimplification. Historical and Social Context The Fulani, also known as Fula or Fulɓe, are a large ethnic group spread across West Africa, with an estimated 13 million in Nigeria alone. They are predominantly Mus...