A Nigerian man, Bello Ibrahim Baru, has raised alarm over what he describes as growing discrimination against Fulani people in everyday life, particularly in public transportation. Baru, who identified himself as the Bongel chairman, took to Facebook to share his frustrations, posting a photo of young Fulani individuals alongside a strongly worded message.
In his post, Baru condemned what he called ignorance-driven bias, where some Nigerians allegedly refuse to travel with Fulani passengers. “This is enough of what is being done to the Fulani,” he wrote. “How can people say they will not board a vehicle at the park just because of their ignorance, claiming they don’t want to ride with Fulani people? Everyone knows that this insecurity and lack of peace we are facing in Nigeria affects the Fulani more than any other tribe. Besides that, there is no tribe without criminals.”
Baru’s remarks highlight the tension between public fears of insecurity and the ethnic profiling that often follows. He expressed deep frustration, insisting: “Enough is enough. We Fulani are human beings, and we have dignity just like everyone else. Ethnic discrimination should stop.” His words have since sparked heated conversations across social media, with some Nigerians supporting his call against ethnic bias, while others argue that rising reports of kidnapping and violence have fueled public fear.
The issue gained further attention after a recent incident in Lagos, where a Fulani man traveling to Calabar was reportedly denied passage after fellow passengers refused to continue the journey with him. According to reports, the man was refunded his fare at the motor park as others expressed fears of possible kidnapping.
Nigeria has long battled insecurity, with kidnapping cases and violent attacks recorded across several regions. Analysts warn that while fear is understandable, allowing it to drive ethnic-based decisions risks deepening divisions in the country. Critics emphasize that criminal activities should never be used to stereotype an entire ethnic group.
As reactions continue to pour in, Baru’s call for unity and fair treatment resonates with many who believe Nigeria’s path to peace lies not in division but in solidarity. The debate underscores the urgent need for solutions to insecurity that protect all citizens without fueling ethnic discrimination.