Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has urged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence with Fulani herdsmen, saying the country must find practical ways for communities and pastoralists to live together without violence or hostility. He made the call while commenting on the recurring clashes between farmers and herders across parts of the country.

Gumi explained that Fulani herdsmen are part of Nigeria’s social and economic system and cannot simply be ignored or forced out. He stressed that dialogue, understanding, and fair policies are better solutions than confrontation, which often leads to loss of lives and destruction of property.

He also called on government at all levels to create clear grazing policies, support modern livestock practices, and provide conflict-resolution mechanisms that protect both farmers and herders. According to him, the absence of proper regulation has worsened mistrust and deepened tensions between the two groups.

The cleric urged community leaders, security agencies, and civil society to work together to promote peace, warning that continued conflict would only damage national unity, food production, and rural development. He maintained that peaceful coexistence remains the only sustainable path forward.