In a disturbing development, eleven decomposing bodies of Fulani individuals from Tulde Fulbe, Ladduga Grazing Reserve in Kaduna State, were discovered in a forest near an area called “Crossing.” The bodies were allegedly those of Fulani individuals arrested by soldiers at different times, according to Daily Trust.
Relatives and community members identified the victims, claiming that they were arrested by soldiers in the area and subsequently found dead. The bodies were reportedly in an advanced state of decomposition, requiring the community to transport them in sacks for burial.
Victims included Safiyanu Adamu, Abdulkadir Idris, Akilu Abdullahi, Ibrahim Abubakar, Magaji Umar, Said Saleh, Abdulaziz Yusuf, Ibrahim Sani, Musa Dan Asabe, Nura Yusuf, and Nuru Magaji.
The Fulani community accused soldiers of intimidating and unjustly arresting their members. Some alleged that soldiers stole property, including ginger, motorcycles, and cash, from homes in the community.
Family members narrated instances where their loved ones were allegedly arrested, leading to their deaths. The Village Head of Tilde Fulbe, Ladduga Grazing Reserve, called for a proper investigation into the matter.
When contacted, the Kaduna State government assured that the complaint would be investigated, urging calm. The Nigerian Army stated that they would provide necessary reactions through the 1 Division in Kaduna. The Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Division Headquarters Kaduna, confirmed the arrest of a suspected bandit and refuted allegations of mistreatment.
The situation raises concerns about security and human rights in the region, prompting calls for a thorough and transparent investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding the arrests and deaths.
