A Fulani group, identified as Fulani Nationality Movement (FUNAM) has claimed the responsibility for the alleged assassination attempt on benue governor, Samuel Ortom in the broad daylight of Saturday.
DAILY GIST had reported how some Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen open gunfire on the governor’s convoy. A repel gun battle with the herdsmen by his security officers surrounding him reportedly saved ortom’s life.
The Fulani group in a press statement released disclosed that its intention was to kill Governor Ortom on Saturday but a slight communication error in its plan saved the Governor’s life.
On why it wants Ortom dead, FUNAM in a statement signed by Umar Amir Shehu said Ortom stands against Fulani interests in Nigeria and opposes open ranching of animals.
The group however further threatened that its fighters are still all out to get Ortom and they would ultimately kill the Benue State Governor.
The group also threatened that in the next few months, it would carry out attacks on strategic human and material assets of States and Non-State groups or individuals known for their anti-Fulani campaigns across Nigeria.
Below is the full FUNAM statement dated 20th March;
“Our attention has been drawn to media reports today speculating about who attacked the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom.”
“Yes. Yes, We did. The Fulani Nationality Movement, ( FUNAM) carried out the attack. We have genuine reasons. We acted on behalf of Millions of Fulani people in 15 countries.”
“It’s a case of vengeance against an infidel who has used his time and money, deployed in destroying the Fulani values and inheritance.”
“Our courageous fighters carried out this historic attack to send a great message to Ortum and his collaborators: Where ever you are, once you are against Fulani long term interest, we shall get you down. This is a clear warning. We hope those who take us for granted will get the indisputable message.”
“Our intention is unequivocal: TO KILL HIM. That mission will one day be fulfilled and very soon too.”
“Eleven of FUNAM operatives were involved in the attack. Ortum escaped today because of a slight technical communication error. Nest time, he will not be lucky. We can assure him and his supporters.”
“Ortom has been leading the campaign against Fulani interests in the North. We have our operatives in all Southern States. Each will face our sword soon.”
“We warn collaborators working against Fulani people across Nigeria: WE SHALL GET YOU irrespective of your hidden place.”
“We state clearly, any state or individual that opposes RUGA will be confronted. Any State or individual that opposes ranching, we shall get you. Speak against ranching and RUGA even on the internet: Our Noiseless fighters shall find and fix you.”
“In the next few months, FUNAM will carry out attacks on strategic human and material assets of States and Non State groups or individuals known for their anti-Fulani campaigns.”
“We shall hunt you down in your houses, in your workplaces, in your car, in your streets. It’s a matter of time.”
