Fulani Terrorism Cannot Be Equated With IPOB’s Self-Determination: Nigeria Must Stop Rewarding Violence — Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo Blasts Sheikh Ahmad Gumi

Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen

Prominent human rights lawyer and public interest advocate, Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, has strongly condemned what he described as a “reckless and misleading attempt” by Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and some northern elites to equate the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) with Fulani terrorists.

In a statement issued on Monday, Chief Omirhobo faulted Gumi’s recent comments suggesting that Fulani militants and IPOB agitators share similar grievances. He said such comparisons are “an insult to the victims of terrorism” and dangerously blur the lines between criminal violence and lawful agitation.

“IPOB is demanding a separate state through agitation and self-determination, while Fulani terrorists are engaged in killings, kidnappings, land occupation, and violent domination,” Omirhobo said. “These are not the same and must never be treated as such.”

He questioned the logic behind glorifying or rationalizing terrorist actions, insisting that those responsible for mass killings and kidnappings must face justice rather than sympathy.

“If Sheikh Gumi insists that Fulani terrorists have grievances, Nigerians deserve to know — who offended them? What injustice justifies the killing, rape, and displacement of thousands of innocent citizens?” he asked.

Chief Omirhobo argued that the Fulani ethnic group is not marginalized, noting that they occupy significant positions in government, security institutions, and national politics. According to him, “Nigeria must stop rewarding violence and blaming victims,” emphasizing that such actions only embolden lawlessness.

Drawing from his experience as a Niger Delta activist, he contrasted the region’s struggles with environmental degradation and poverty against the violent tactics of armed groups elsewhere.

“Our oil and gas sustain Nigeria, yet our communities live in poverty. Our rivers and farmlands are polluted beyond use, but we do not take up arms against innocent Nigerians. We seek justice, not bloodshed,” he said.

Chief Omirhobo called on northern leaders to stop “misleading their people and glorifying terrorists,” warning that equating terrorism with political agitation undermines justice and national unity.

“Terrorism is a crime. Self-determination is a legal debate. The two must never be confused or equated,” he emphasized.

He concluded by urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to take a firm stance against all forms of violent extremism and to prioritize justice, equality, and the protection of human life above political considerations.

“Nigeria must decide whether to continue rewarding violence or to uphold justice and the sanctity of life,” he declared.

Observers note that Chief Omirhobo’s statement adds to the growing national debate on how government and public figures frame discussions around terrorism, insurgency, and the rights of self-determination movements in Nigeria.

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