The Zamfara State Government, on Tuesday, celebrated repentant bandits through a Fulani cultural festival known as ‘Sharo’.
The Sharo Fulani culture is a yearly event organised at the end of the Eid-el-Kabir festival. The last one was held eight years ago due to insecurity occasioned by banditry perpetrated by suspected Fulani.
Governor Bello Matawalle, however, invited the Fulani and the repentant bandits for the festival in fulfilment of the peace agreement the state government reached with the ex-bandits.
The event, which was attended by over 20,000 Fulani and well-wishers, also had in attendance top government functionaries, Fulani leaders and repentant bandits graced the event.
In his speech, the governor commended the reformed bandits and the Fulani leaders for accepting the peace initiatives brought up by his administration.
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He stated, “I want to use this opportunity to thank my Fulani brothers for accepting the peace accord. This year’s Eid-el Kabir is the only one we witnessed where no live was lost as a result of banditry.”
On his part, state Chairman, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Alhaji Ahmed Husaini, commended the governor for allowing the Fulani to perform their cultural festival, assured him that the Fulani had agreed to abide by the peace pact.
Ahmed added, “All of us who are Fulani in Zamfara State are ready to ensure lasting peace in the state. We will support you (the governor) in your effort to move the state forward.”