Osun Guber: Fulani Group Denies Endorsing Any Candidate
A group of Fulani farmers resident in Osun state under the aegis of Osun Fulani Farmers Unity Forum, has dissociated itself from the purported endorsement of a gubernatorial candidate in the state.
The group said it has not pledged support for any party or candidate contesting in the August 15 governorship poll.
In a statement signed by the President of the OFFUF, Alhaji Saheed Meiburuji, a copy obtained on Wednesday in Osogbo, the group subsequently urged members of the public to disregard a report purporting that it has endorsed a particular candidate, but expressed readiness to meet any candidate interested in working with it.
Meiburuji, in the statement, noted that individuals or groups that had declared support for a candidate on behalf of the Fulani community lacked the authority to do so.
OFFUF statement further read partly, “the Fulani community in Osun State has not, at this time, endorsed any political party or candidate. The leadership reiterated that any political engagement or endorsement involving the Fulani people must follow established and respected traditional processes.
“Interested political parties or candidates seeking the support of the Fulani community are expected to engage through the appropriate and recognized channels. These include traditional and community leadership structures such as the Seriki, Ardos, and other chieftaincy institutions, which serve as the legitimate representatives of the people.
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“We maintain that a comprehensive database of Fulani populations and settlements across Osun State. The Fulani population in the state is estimated at over 30,000 people, spread across the three senatorial districts, nine federal constituencies, and all 30 local government areas. These settlements include both nomadic and semi-settled groups engaged primarily in cattle rearing, dairy production, and agro-related activities.”
It insisted that the group remains the only recognised body representing the Fulani community in Osun State, adding that “The Forum operates under the leadership of Alhaji Saheed Meiburuji, the Bobaselu of Ifon Orolu Kingdom.”
The Forum urged the public, political stakeholders, and the media to exercise caution and verify information before accepting or disseminating claims relating to the group, and called on all parties to respect due process and the integrity of Fulani traditional institutions.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
