By Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, Human Rights Lawyer & Public Interest Advocate

Date: 9th November 2025

I strongly condemn the recent attempt by Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and certain northern elites to draw a moral equivalence between the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Fulani terrorists. This comparison is reckless, misleading, and an insult to the victims of terrorism.

Let the facts be clear: IPOB is demanding a separate state through agitation and self-determination. Fulani terrorists, on the other hand, are engaged in revenge killings, kidnappings, land occupation, and violent domination. These are not the same and must never be treated as such.

If Sheikh Gumi insists that Fulani terrorists have grievances, Nigerians deserve clear answers: Who offended them? What injustice justifies the killing, kidnap, rape, and displacement of thousands? Why should terrorists be praised for “listening” while citizens are buried daily?

The Fulani are not oppressed. They occupy major positions in government, security forces, and national politics. Nigeria must stop rewarding violence and blaming victims. If there are people with legitimate grievances, it is communities like mine in the Niger Delta: Our oil and gas are taken to sustain Nigeria, but our people live in poverty. Our rivers, creeks, and farmlands are polluted beyond use. We cannot fish, farm, or hunt anymore. Yet we do not take up arms against innocent Nigerians. We seek justice, not bloodshed.

Northern elites must stop misleading their people and glorifying terrorists. Terrorism is a crime. Self-determination is a legal debate. The two must never be confused or equated.

Nigeria must choose: Will we continue to justify terror and silence truth? Or will we uphold justice, equality, and the sanctity of human life?