Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building has stated that, the nagative media headlines reportage against the Fulanis, are the contributed factors that is associated with their nagative stereotype.
“Fulani robbers caged”, “4 wanted Fulani bandits nabbed” amongst other headlines contribute to the negative stereotypes.
This was disclosed at a press conference by the Executive Director of Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building, Mr. Adib Saani in collaboration with other Civil Society Groups, the Ghana Cattle Ranching and Transhumance Committee, Tabital Pulaaku International, the National Council of Fulani Chiefs, Fulani Youth Association, Ghana National Association of Cattle Farmers and Women in Small Scale Livestock Breeding, to address the recent violence between Fulanis and some natives of towns and villages in the Upper East Region of Ghana.
“As Civil Society, we don’t take sides. But we have noticed that the pattern of violence reported to the police in the Upper East Region and some other parts of the country in recent weeks, is mostly against Fulanis. Several such incidents have been recorded, and in due course, you shall be shown evidence of what truly transpired”.
The violence he mentioned, has created a sense of marginalization which incontrovertibly carry grave security implications for the nation. “Beyond the immediate human toll, such acts of violence can significantly compromise our collective efforts towards countering violent extremism. When any group within a society is alienated, or subjected to any form of discrimination, it creates a fertile ground for social unrest, extremism, and violent reactions. Such marginalization erodes trust in the state, fuels grievances, and undermines the legitimacy and effectiveness of governance structures’.
He averred that, when marginalized communities are left vulnerable and unprotected, it breeds a sense of injustice and fuels resentment which, in turn, leads to cycles of violence, retaliation, and potential for recruitment by extremist groups seeking to exploit grievances.
“This issue is not isolated to our borders but resonates throughout the West African sub-region. We must draw lessons from other countries, such as Burkina Faso and Mali, which have experienced similar challenges. History has shown that when certain people or groups are denied equal rights, opportunities, and protection, they become susceptible to radicalization and recruitment into extremist organizations. These extremist elements not only threaten the security and stability of our nation but also have far-reaching regional and international implications. Above all, the consequences of such divisions and violence have a lasting impact on a nation’s societal harmony, security, and overall stability”.
He entreated all stakeholders, including the government, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, to come together and address the issue collectively. “We call for a comprehensive and inclusive approach that upholds human rights principles, ensures the protection of all citizens, and promotes peaceful coexistence among different ethnic and religious groups”.
Mr. Saani further, urged the government to prioritize initiatives that would promote social cohesion, interethnic dialogue, and understanding among diverse communities whilst admonished the media to be security sensitive in their reportage.
According to Mr. Adib Saani, he have never heard “Ashanti Robbers caught”, “Dagomba bandits nabbed”, or “2 Ewe killers arrested.
“The Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building and other civil society groups standready to support the government, engage in constructive dialogue, collaborate on initiatives to prevent further violence, address the root causes, and foster a culture of peace and inclusivity. We urge the government and relevant stakeholders including the diplomatic community to consider these security implications seriously and prioritize reconciliation, social cohesion, and justice efforts. We admonish the Fulani community to cooperate with law enforcement and not take matters into their own hands—no need for reprisals. They should make conscious efforts to rid their communities off these miscreants who are pushing them into disrepute. The rule of law governs us”.
He commended the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, for
demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment to resolving the issues likewise, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for not only talking but demonstrating a genuine commitment to getting all perpetrators on all sides arrested and prosecuted.
