A video of Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago speaking has gone viral across social media in recent days. In the clip, people claim the governor told Fulani people he is not afraid to speak the truth and that most kidnapped victims say their abductors are Fulani. ....s also say Bago has sacked all Fulani district heads, known as Ardos, and replaced them with indigenous chiefs to fight insecurity.
The video shows the governor addressing traditional rulers and community leaders. Many online posts link it to rising kidnapping, land grabbing, destruction of farmlands, and claims that some local Fulani invite relatives from outside Nigeria during conflicts. Watch Video Here ➜
The speech happened during the governor’s visit to the Emir of Kagara in Kagara, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State. The visit took place around mid-July 2026 after communal clashes between Fulani herders and the Kamuku community in the area.
However, a fact-check by Daily Trust newspaper has declared the claim that Bago sacked all Fulani district heads as false. The newspaper reviewed the full speech and spoke to people on ground in Niger State. According to the report, the governor did not order the removal of any Fulani district heads.
Instead, Bago urged Fulani leaders to help identify criminals in their communities and work with security agencies. He also called for peaceful living between farmers and herders. He asked the Emir of Kagara to give Fulani people proper representation as district or ward heads in the emirate system so everyone feels included. He spoke against people selling land without government approval and against divisive preaching.
Daily Trust’s correspondent in the state confirmed that the governor’s words have been twisted online. The viral posts claiming a complete sacking and replacement with Nupe chiefs added details that were not in the original speech.
Despite the fact-check, the story has spread widely on X, Facebook, Instagram and other platforms since about 22 July 2026.