The Zamfara State Government, on Tuesday , organised ‘Sharo ’ cultural festival for repentant Fulani bandits as parts of the peace pact it reached with the ex -hoodlums.

The sharo Fulani culture is a yearly event organised at the end of the Eid -el- Kabir festival . The festival was held eight years ago due to insecurity occasioned by banditry perpetuated 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 .

Over 20 ,000 Fulani and well -wishers attended the festival where Fulani popular cultural activities were displayed .

Matawalle , top government functionaries , Fulani leaders and repentant bandits graced the event.

The governor commended the reformed bandits and the Fulani leaders for accepting the peace initiatives brought up by his administration .

He expressed delight that this year ’s Eid - el-Kabir was celebrated without any killings in the state.

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 .”

He maintained that his administration would soon come out with welfare packages for the Fulani to enable them to live a decent life .

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The state Chairman , Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association , Alhaji Ahmed Husaini, who 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 .”