Three prominent Fulani leaders in Kwara State have raised the alarm over a potential breach of peace, accusing a rival group of plotting to create unrest.
The leaders, Alhaji Abdullahi Ahmed (Ga’a Federal), Abdullahi Arisekola (Ga’a Erin and Jowuro), and Muhammad Jowuro of Omu Aran, have formally petitioned the Department of State Services (DSS) to intervene.
In their petition, the leaders accused a group led by an unnamed figure of rejecting the authority of Alhaji Jimoh Adam Ojonla, who was recently turbaned as the new Ardo Fulani of Kwara State.
The turbaning ceremony, conducted on November 15, 2024, by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, was meant to end leadership disputes among the Fulani in the state.
However, the petitioners allege that the group’s leader is working to install a rival Ardo in defiance of the Emir’s decision.
“A Threat to Peace”
The petition, submitted to the DSS on November 25, 2024, through their lawyer, H.O. Buhari of Buhari, Oguntoye Associates, described the alleged plan as a direct threat to peace.
The petition reads: “After the said turbaning, some disgruntled elements among the Fulani, led by their leader, sought to cause confusion by planning to install another Ardo of Fulani for Kwara State.”
The leaders further alleged that the rival group’s leader had mobilized his supporters through public announcements and urged them to purchase special attire to celebrate the proposed installation of a new Ardo.
“This individual has gone on air and directed his supporters to purchase and wear ‘Ankara clothes’ for the installation of a new Ardo to challenge the Emir of Ilorin’s decision,” the petition stated.
The petitioners warned that these actions could escalate tensions and lead to violence.
Seeking DSS Intervention
The Fulani leaders said their petition was a preemptive step to avoid chaos within the Fulani community and the larger society.
“We feel duty-bound to inform you and other security agencies about this,” the leaders stated in the petition.
They urged the DSS to act swiftly to prevent what they described as a brewing crisis.
“We cannot afford to let these acts of defiance result in a breakdown of law and order in Kwara State,” the leaders warned.
A Growing Leadership Dispute
The controversy surrounding the Ardo Fulani position has divided the Fulani community in Kwara.
While some have pledged loyalty to Alhaji Jimoh Adam Ojonla, others are reportedly backing the rival group’s leader.
Alhaji Ojonla’s turbaning by the Emir of Ilorin was meant to unify the community, but the emergence of a rival faction has created uncertainty.
Observers say the situation could worsen if not addressed promptly by authorities.
Calls for Unity and Peace
The petitioners emphasized the need for unity within the Fulani community.
They appealed to all factions to respect the Emir of Ilorin’s decision and avoid actions that could incite conflict.
“The Emir’s choice should be respected to maintain peace and order,” one of the leaders reportedly said during a meeting.
Community elders and traditional leaders have also called for dialogue to resolve the dispute.
