Atiku denies allegation he’s chief financier of Fulani herdsmen

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has refuted claims that he is the chief financier of the national apex body of Fulani herdsmen, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

The chairman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) Paul Unongo, was quoted to have during an interview alleged that Atiku is the chief financier and most influential member of the MACBAN.

He had therefore called on Atiku, who is a prince of the Tiv Court, to call the killer herdsmen to stop massacring Nigerians.

But in a quick reaction, Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, debunked the allegation, describing it as sad and false.

According to Ibe, though Atiku is proud to be Fulani, he remains a detribalized Nigerian who would never favour one ethnic group over another.

He said, “Let it be known that though Waziri Adamawa is a Fulani, he is not a member of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria nor has he ever been a member. He has also never discussed about that group with Chief Paul Unongo.

READ ALSO: Fulani herdsmen have killed more than Boko Haram, act now, CAN urges FG

“Furthermore, Abubakar enjoins that a thorough investigation be made into the killings in Benue, and that anyone found culpable be made to bear the full weight of the law.”

He added, “As a traditional title holder of Tiv land, Abubakar, assures the entire people of Benue (including the Idoma and Igede) that he would do everything in his power to bring justice, relief and compensation their way.”

 

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