The Plateau State branch of the Gan Allah Fulani Development Association of Nigeria (GAFDAN) has formally dismissed claims made by the Bokkos United Community Based Organizations. These claims suggested that Fulani individuals moved into specific areas within the council to prepare for attacks and seize local land.
State Chairman Hon. Garba Abdullahi Muhammad issued a statement on Monday labeling these accusations as malicious, inflammatory, and intended to incite conflict between ethnic groups. The organization noted that the reports, which spread rapidly on social media, unfairly characterized the Fulani population as criminals and terrorists infiltrating the region.
Muhammad expressed concern that the accusations attempted to frame legitimate religious activities, such as Friday prayers, as suspicious or dangerous. He argued that these generalizations violate the constitutional rights of individuals and hinder ongoing efforts by government and security leaders to establish peace in Plateau State.
The association emphasized that the allegations lack any verifiable evidence and rely heavily on harmful ethnic profiling. GAFDAN urged the public to refrain from circulating unverified claims that fuel suspicion and violence. Instead, they called on citizens to report actual security concerns to the proper authorities rather than engaging in propaganda.
The statement concluded with a plea to security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation. Furthermore, the organization encouraged community leaders and the public to promote dialogue and responsible communication to prevent the escalation of ethnic and religious tensions.
