NIGERIA: A viral video circulating on social media has stirred nationwide debate after a man identifying himself as a Fulani herdsman alleged that the Nigerian government provides weapons to armed groups.
The clip, shared by several users on X, includes English interpretations provided by viewers, as the original audio has not been independently verified.
In the footage, posted by an X user on Sunday, the speaker emphatically claims he is “swearing to Almighty Allah” as he insists Fulani herders have no natural access to firearms.
“Fulani don’t know what gun is. We are only herdsmen. Cows don’t give birth to guns,” he says while addressing a crowd.
The man further alleges that the government supplies AK-47 rifles to them, adding that he is “not afraid to say the truth.” Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi is seen standing beside him as he speaks.
The video, which has garnered over 380,000 views, has sparked intense reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for a full investigation into the claims. Authorities have yet to officially comment on the viral footage.
There’s been controversy surrounding the Fulani herdsmen and their access to military-grade weapons in Nigeria. While some claim the Nigerian government provides them with weapons, there’s no concrete evidence to support this claim.
However, the leaked audio recording features Jauro Buba, a Fulani herdsman leader, boasting about having machine guns, bombs, and military uniforms. This has raised concerns about the source of their weapons.
The Nigerian government has denied issuing firearms to herdsmen, with the Inspector General of Police stating that anyone found with prohibited firearms will be arrested and prosecuted. The government has also launched investigations into the source of these weapons.
Some speculate that the herdsmen may have acquired their weapons from war-torn countries like Libya and Sudan, or through corrupt officials and smugglers. The issue remains a complex and sensitive topic in Nigeria, with many calling for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.
