Encomium
SARKIN Fulani of Lagos State and chairman, Association of Fulani Chiefs of Nigeria, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammed A. Bambado was one of the dignitaries that attended Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) leader, Gani Adam’s 44th birthday celebration which held at Sheba Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, May 1, 2014. The Fulani head, who has lived almost all his life in Lagos extolled the virtues of the OPC National Coordinator, especially in the aspect of unity among ethnic nationalities. Alhaji Bambado also expressed dismay about the heinous activities of Boko Haram, and he prayed Allah will expose those sponsoring the deadly group. He addressed these and few other issues when ENCOMIUM Weekly had a chat with him at the event.
How do you feel about today’s event?
Yes, it is a good one. I feel very happy that I am part of it. It is a gathering that symbolizes unity.
How would you describe the celebrant, Otunba Gani Adams?
Gani Adams is like God sent. He has brought peace, especially among the Arewa community in the state. And ever since I met him, I have achieved a lot. He always makes sure that peace exists between the Arewa and host communities. We have achieved a lot through him.
What’s the Arewa community doing to complement his effort of ensuring peace and unity between the Yoruba and Hausa-Fulani groups in Lagos State?
Like I told you, we’re also working hand-in-hand with him to make sure that peace continues to exist in Lagos State and other parts of the country. We’re doing our best.
What’s your view about Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria?
Boko Haram, as far as I am concerned, is just a name. But the government has to be very firm about it so that the issue comes to an end. And whoever that is involved, may Almighty Allah expose them.
What’s also your comment about 234 school girls that were kidnapped by Boko Haram?
Our own part is to pray but the rest is left for the government. The government should work hard to ensure that these children are rescued from their abductors without anything happening to them.
How would you describe the experience as Sarkin Fulani, Lagos State? Are you enjoying the support of the Yoruba?
It’s an interesting experience. I am really enjoying the support of the Yoruba. As far as I am concerned, I have been in Lagos for 150 years, meaning that my family has been existing in Lagos for about 150 years. So, you can see that I am part of you in Lagos. I am also Yoruba (laughs).
What advice do you have for other tribes, regarding the unity of this country?
I call other tribes to emulate what’s happening here in the South West. Here, we’re living with the host community like brothers and sisters. We don’t have any problem. So, I am using this medium to call on other ethnic nationalities to emulate the South West.
As a royal father, you can’t be a partisan politician. But do you have anyone you’re supporting for 2015 presidential race?
I am a royal father, a father to all of them. I support everybody.
You’re from Jigawa. How would you describe the performance of your governor, Sule Lamido?
Sule Lamido is doing well. There is no doubt about that. He is doing his best despite the fact that the revenue is still very low. I give him kudos.
How would you assess President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration?
So far, so good. President Jonathan is also doing his best but we should continue to pray for him that Almighty Allah will strengthen his effort so that he can do more.
– TADE ASIFAT
