A storm of controversy has erupted across Northern Nigeria following a public statement by Sheikh Musa Asadus-Sunnah, popularly known as ArÉ—on Miyetti Allah, who represents a faction of Fulani scholars and elites.
In a bold and divisive address, Sheikh Musa called for the immediate disbandment of Hausa vigilante groups operating across the North-West region, citing recent actions by these groups as "unacceptable."
The cleric's statement comes in the wake of several high-profile Fulani bandit leaders being neutralized by local vigilantes. Among those reportedly killed are Kacalla ÆŠan Bakollo, Kacalla Maidada, and Kacalla Maijikka — all notorious for orchestrating deadly attacks, kidnappings, and terrorizing rural communities in states like Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina.
Addressing federal security authorities, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, and the Ministers of Defence Bello Matawalle and Badaru Abubakar, Sheikh Musa urged the government to halt all community-based vigilante operations in Hausa territories.
Instead, he proposed what he described as a “reconciliation and reintegration approach” for armed bandits — similar to the amnesty program once offered to Niger Delta militants. His recommendations included government-sponsored manufacturing jobs and social reintegration programs for the fighters.
The comments have been met with widespread condemnation across Hausa communities, many of which have borne the brunt of brutal bandit attacks for years. Thousands have been killed, abducted, or displaced in the escalating crisis, with state security forces often stretched thin.
“This is not just tone-deaf — it’s dangerous,” said a civil society activist in Sokoto. “You can’t compare economic-motivated militancy in the Niger Delta with terrorism and ethno-criminal violence in the North-West.”
Security experts have also expressed concern, warning that disbanding vigilante groups without viable alternatives could leave many communities vulnerable.
While federal authorities have yet to issue an official response, pressure is mounting on the government to clarify its stance on the matter. The growing debate underscores deepening tensions between Fulani and Hausa communities, as well as rising public frustration over the government’s handling of insecurity in the region.
Source: Hausaland Magazine