Plateau Crisis: MACBAN Attributes Ongoing Violence to Injustice and Neglect
Jos, Plateau State
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has shed light on the persistent killings and attacks in Plateau State, attributing the violence to a cycle of vengeance fueled by injustice, neglect, and unchecked aggression against Fulani herders.
During a press briefing held in Abuja, MACBAN's National Secretary, Bello Gotomo, explained that Fulani herders in Plateau State have been subjected to relentless attacks, cattle rustling, and killings, with little to no intervention from security agencies. This lack of response has compelled many herders to seek justice on their own terms.
Gotomo stated, "Our people are attacked, killed, and their cows stolen. When they report, nothing is done. When criminals strike against them and walk free, it provokes reprisals. That is the truth." He further emphasized that the cycle of violence is exacerbated by climate-induced migration, the proliferation of arms, and weak law enforcement, all of which have intensified the conflict in the state.
Gotomo reiterated that Fulani herders have coexisted peacefully with native communities in Plateau for decades. However, the dynamics changed when criminal elements began targeting their people and livestock. "We are peace-loving people. We’ve lived in peace with Plateau natives for many years until criminals started stealing our cows and killing our people," he stated.
In response to the escalating violence, President of the Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM), Dalylop Solomon Nwantiri, accused Fulani militia of launching a fresh attack on Wednesday night, destroying over 20,000 hectares of farmland in Jol District, Riyom Local Government Area. Nwantiri claimed that despite the presence of troops, the assailants acted without resistance.
Nwantiri urged the international community to take urgent action on the insecurity ravaging the North Central and North East regions of Nigeria. He criticized the lack of attention given to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Plateau and appealed to humanitarian agencies to step in. "We call on the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and other well-meaning agencies to remember Plateau. These people are Nigerians. They deserve help too," he added.
Both MACBAN and the Berom youths have called for justice and international intervention, urging federal authorities and humanitarian agencies to restore peace and assist displaced persons in the region.
