AREWA - Nigeria Must Offer Fulani Militias Amnesty And Compensation To Restore Peace And Stability Across Regions [VIDEO]

 

The leader of the Arewa Consultative Forum has called on the federal government to extend amnesty and financial incentives to Fulani ethnic militias, also widely referred to as bandits, in a move reminiscent of the treatment given to Niger Delta militants years ago. Speaking in a recent video statement, the forum chairman argued that such measures could provide a pathway toward lasting peace and reduce the violence plaguing several northern states.

Communities in Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, and other parts of Nigeria’s northwest have witnessed escalating attacks from armed groups over the past decade, leading to loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of property. The Arewa Consultative Forum leader emphasized that without proactive engagement, these conflicts risk deepening societal divisions and perpetuating cycles of revenge attacks.

Financial inducements, the forum suggests, would not only incentivize the bandits to lay down their arms but also enable them to integrate into the economic and social fabric of the country. Historical examples were cited, noting that the Niger Delta militants were successfully demobilized through a combination of monetary support, vocational training, and political inclusion, leading to a measurable decrease in oil-related crimes and regional instability.

The call for amnesty has sparked varied reactions from different quarters of the country. Civil society groups have expressed caution, stressing that while peace is critical, it must not come at the expense of justice for victims of banditry. Analysts warn that unconditional financial rewards could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging further criminality if not carefully managed.

Security experts suggest that a comprehensive framework must accompany any amnesty program. Measures could include monitoring mechanisms, mandatory community service, and rehabilitation programs aimed at transforming former militants into productive citizens. The Arewa Consultative Forum leader reinforced the need for a balanced approach, insisting that economic rehabilitation combined with social integration could serve as a pragmatic solution to decades-long insecurity.

Residents in affected regions continue to live under the shadow of kidnappings, cattle rustling, and village raids. Families have called for immediate government action, voicing frustration over perceived delays in addressing the crisis. The forum’s proposal, they argue, could present a practical alternative to continued military confrontations that have yielded limited results.

While the federal government has historically hesitated to offer amnesty to northern armed groups, citing moral and security concerns, the current plea highlights the urgency of exploring creative solutions. Political observers note that failure to address the issue comprehensively may further destabilize rural communities and strain national cohesion.

The Arewa Consultative Forum leader concluded by urging policymakers to take bold steps, arguing that proactive engagement with Fulani militias through amnesty and structured economic support could pave the way for a more peaceful and unified Nigeria. The debate on how best to reconcile security concerns with the demand for justice is expected to dominate public discourse in the coming months.

Video: The federal government of Nigeria should give Fulani ethnic militias (Bandits) amnesty and money like Niger Delta militants - Arewa consultative forum leader pic.twitter.com/KxIzBWfRPX

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