Leaders of Fulani communities under the aegis of Fulbe United for Peace and Development have endorsed the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Tinubu, ahead of the February 24 presidential election.
The Fulani leaders who are drawn from different parts of the country said they were satisfied with the antecedents of the former Lagos State governor and his plans for Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement signed by the special assistant on media and publicity to the presidential candidate of the APC, AbdulAziz Abdulaziz.
Speaking at the event, which was held in conjunction with a socio-political group, Arewa New Agenda, the group said it would use its 33,661 members to mobilize millions of their members to vote for Mr Tinubu in the presidential poll.
While addressing the gathering after performing the kola nut-sharing tradition, the leader of the group, Ardo Aliyu Liman Bobboi, said with the sharing of the kola, the leaders would go back with the message to their people on the decision reached the meeting.
He said the gathering was an avenue to underscore their support, trust in his leadership qualities and capacity to administer the country effectively if he emerges victorious at the poll.
Mr Liman, who made reference to Tinubu’s Fulani associates who accompanied him to the meeting, including governors Abdullahi Ganduje, Abubakar Badaru of Kano and Jigawa states respectively and pioneer Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Nuhu Ribadu, expressed optimism that the Tinubu led presidency would ensure the well-being of the Fulani ethnic nationality in Nigeria.
The group also conferred on Mr Tinubu the title of “Barkindo” (the blessed one) which they described as a revered title among the Fulani.
In his remarks the Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje paid a glowingly tributes to the leadership qualities of Mr Tinubu.
He described the Fulani people, who have cohabited peaceably with their fellow Nigerians, as an endangered species that deserve to be catered for and protected in the years ahead.
Mr Tinubu in his speech reminisced the cordial relationship between his late mother Abibatu Mogaji, himself and Fulani inhabitants of Lagos State over the years.
He also expressed gratitude for the show of love and support for his ambition.
He reiterated his commitment to creating an enabling environment where Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic and religious backgrounds shall cohabit and live peaceably with one another without let or hindrances.
“Prior to this day I never thought I would meet a Fulani man who speaks better Yoruba. That is very wonderful.
“This is the Nigeria that we want, we expect Nigeria to be united with one voice, sharing of culture and belief in each other. I want to tell you if we stay here for the next five hours it’s the same story you would be hearing from me. Thank Almighty Allah.
“We have had problems with herders. But I guarantee you today that the problem would be solved permanently. The blueprint is almost ready. We will plan with it. The world is fair and good for all of us.
“We have to live in peace not only because of today but because of our children and grandchildren.
“What we learn about the Fulanis is their simplicity and commitment to promises. “When they give you commitment you get it. I hope I can transfer the blood, spirit that I got from you to my grandchildren for the unity stability and peace of Nigeria.
“You know you are in my heart. We will make Nigeria great. And we will make the name Fulani a very respectable name,” Mr Tinubu said.
By Umar Audu
Visit Citizen NewsNG To Read More Latest And Interesting News
FOR ADVERT, POLITICAL CAMPAIGN ONLINE BANNER & POSTER DISPLAY, EVENT COVERAGE, SPONSORED ARTICLE/STORY PUBLICATION, PR AND OTHER MEDIA SERVICES:
PLEASE, SEND AN EMAIL TO : citizennewsng@gmail.com