Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has warned that Fulani herders in the state would no longer tolerate the wanton poisoning of their cattle in rural communities by groups it referred to as “Berom Militias.”
MACBAN, which gave the stern warning in a statement issued on Thursday by its Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, said attacks on herders and killing of their cattle in communities, especially in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas by the local militias had gotten to a stage that they have resolved to take adequate measures to stop the attacks.
In the statement, Babayo referenced an alleged attack on herders and the killing of nine cows in the Rakum community in Barkin Ladi on Saturday, April 18th, an act he described as senseless, unfortunate, and highly condemnable.
“The Plateau State Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN strongly condemns the senseless and unfortunate killing of nine (9) cows belonging to innocent herders by suspected Berom youths in Rakum community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area,” the statement said.
Babayo noted that the incident was yet another act capable of escalating tension and undermining the fragile peace being enjoyed in the area as the affected herders were carrying out their lawful and peaceful activities when the local militia gang attacked them.
“MACBAN views this incident as a deliberate provocation and a serious threat to peaceful coexistence among communities in Plateau State. The destruction of livelihood, particularly through the killing of livestock, is not only inhumane but also economically damaging to already vulnerable pastoral families,” he said.
While calling on security agencies to do everything possible to apprehend the perpetrators of the attacks, the MACBAN Chairman also made some demands, including the immediate investigation into the incident, the identification and apprehension of the perpetrators, and ensuring that they are brought to justice without delay.
“We also urge community leaders, youth groups, and all stakeholders in Barkin Ladi LGA to exercise restraint and avoid any form of retaliation. Violence will only deepen mistrust and prolong the cycle of conflict.
“MACBAN remains committed to peace, dialogue, and lawful engagement in addressing grievances. We appeal to the Plateau State Government and relevant authorities to take proactive measures to protect lives and property, and to prevent further occurrences of such incidents. Let it be clearly stated that peaceful coexistence is the only sustainable path forward for all communities in the state,” he added.
