The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has attributed the persistent attacks and killings in Plateau State to unresolved injustices against Fulani herders, claiming that violence will continue until these grievances are addressed.
Speaking after the association's National Executive Council meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, MACBAN National Secretary Mallam Bello Gotomo identified several factors driving the ongoing conflict, including climate-induced migration, weapons proliferation, weak law enforcement, and systemic injustice against herders.
Gotomo explained that when Fulani herdsmen are attacked, killed, or have their cattle rustled without intervention from security agencies, they feel compelled to seek justice through retaliatory attacks on communities where they experienced harm.
"The Fulani are peace-loving people who have been living with Plateau natives in harmony for years before criminals began stealing their cows and killing them," Gotomo stated. He further alleged that when perpetrators of crimes against Fulani herders are apprehended, they face no consequences, which triggers cycles of reprisal attacks.
While condemning the violence that has plagued various parts of Plateau State, the MACBAN secretary called on all parties to embrace dialogue and establish common ground for lasting peace. He specifically urged federal and state governments to ensure justice for wronged Fulani people if there is genuine desire to end the violence.
The statement comes amid ongoing security challenges in Plateau State, where communal clashes have resulted in numerous casualties and displacement of residents over the years. Recently, the Plateau State Government requested Mobile Police deployment and the withdrawal of military forces in response to bandit attacks in the region.
Local lawmakers have also been urged by military authorities to lead peace initiatives within their constituencies to address the deteriorating security situation.
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