...In a strong video message that has since gone viral, the traditional ruler did not mince words as he expressed deep frustration over the recurring abductions and acts of terror affecting communities under his domain:
The Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida, has issued a stern 30-day ultimatum to Fulani herders operating in Taraba State, demanding their immediate departure from the region over rising cases of kidnapping and banditry allegedly linked to elements within the Fulani community.
“If you truly follow Islam like we do, why then are you kidnapping fellow Muslims?” the Emir queried, condemning the actions of the criminal elements believed to be hiding under the guise of pastoralism.
He declared unequivocally, “We’re giving the Fulani herdsmen 30 days to leave Taraba State. If they fail to comply, we’ll track them down one by one and deal with them. They’ve been abducting our people repeatedly—this must stop.”
The Emir, who is known for his outspokenness and traditional influence in the North-East, emphasized that the patience of the people has run thin, citing the constant trauma inflicted on families and communities across Taraba.
In a notable digression, the Emir also questioned the tolerance shown to the same groups in southern parts of the country. “If people in the North can ask them to leave, why are Southerners treating them with leniency?” he asked.
This development has triggered intense debate nationwide, especially as tensions continue to rise over insecurity, land disputes, and ethnic clashes between herders and farmers across various regions of Nigeria.
It remains to be seen how authorities at both state and federal levels will respond to the ultimatum and whether it will escalate or reduce ongoing insecurity in Taraba and beyond.