Fulani leaders have rejected allegations that a recently circulated initiative amounts to paramilitary activity, insisting the group’s mandate has been misrepresented.
Speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI), blogger Alimu Sow said the initiative has existed since 2009 and was established to safeguard worshippers during Ramadan night prayers, particularly against theft and attacks that tend to increase during the period. He maintained that images shared publicly were taken during a workshop and did not depict paramilitary training.
The clarification comes amid growing scrutiny over the group’s operations and structure. Critics had questioned whether the activities shown in the footage pointed to organised security drills beyond community protection.
On Monday, the House of Representatives is expected to examine the matter, seeking to clarify the group’s legal standing, its membership size, and the extent of prior knowledge held by the police and the National Security Agency.
The parliamentary review is anticipated to determine whether the initiative operates within existing legal frameworks or requires further regulatory oversight.