On Fulani Herdsmen and the rising spate of mass murders By Emeka Oparah

First, let me disclaim the image of the young chap bearing a Kalashnikov, because I can't authenticate the veracity of the allegation that he is a "Fulani herdsman".

Having said that, I want to join my voice with those of others to condemn in very loud and unequivocal terms the rising spate of mass murders, which are being credited to herdsmen from the northern parts now known derogatorily as Fulani Herdsmen. It is wrong. It is obnoxious. It is wicked. It is primitive. It is provocative. It is heinous. It is very unfortunate and ruthless. 

Now, two things: It is being alleged that the cows belong to the elite northerners, while the herdsmen are illiterate boys and men, paid a pittance (in slave-like terms) to tend the cows for meat. That is absolutely reprehensible, if it's true.

Also, it is being alleged that neither the National Assembly nor the Presidency has spoken LOUD and CLEAR about these herdsmen and their nefarious activities. That is very unfortunate, very disappointing and disgusting.

I once said if these rampaging herdsmen dare my people in Mbaise, there will be more than enough meat to go round. And I meant it. Suffice it to say that my people are ready for the eventuality of a visit by these merchants of death and carnage. And I wager that most communities are ready or getting ready for them. Now, that's a recipe for disaster. 

At a time when Nigerians are coming to terms with the ebbing of the Boko Haram tide, it appears terror is being repackaged in a different guise. This cannot be allowed. It must NEVER happen. Never.

I therefore call on the president and commander in chief of the armed forces to summon an EMERGENCY National Council of States meeting to discuss this criminal trend and decide how to nip it in the bud. 

Sometimes, you wonder what the Governor of the affected states and the Federal and State lawmakers are doing. Their ineptitude and silence is criminal, if not frustrating. 

A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. We can't allow this to degenerate and get out of hand, just like Boko Haram did years ago. Those who have lost their loved ones won't forget. I WON'T. Karma has no expiry date. Hmmmm!

Addendum: Someone said to me yesterday that the so called "herdsmen" are actually Boko Haram terrorists. I hope not. Hian!