By Muhammad Salisu
The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti-Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, says it has lost more than 30 of its members and over 1,000 livestock were either killed and rustled during recent attacks in the state.
In a statement on Wednesday, the state chairman of the association, Nura Abdullahi, said the loss followed separate attacks in Bassa and Riyom Local Government Areas of the state between February and July, 2021.
According to him, the attacks and killings of the herders were done by Irigwe militias at Kwal, Miango, Mai Yanga and Rafin Bauna general areas of Bassa Local Government Area of the state.
He added that similar attacks were carried out by some Berom militias at various locations in Riyom Local Government Area of the state during the period in reference.
The MACBAN chairman lamented that other killings took place in Jos North, Jos South and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas respectively.
“Going by the detail provided in our statement, more than thirty cattle rearers have been killed, many others sustained injuries and hospitalised.
“Also, more than one thousand cows, sheep and goats were rustled, many of which were killed and dumped in the bush.
Mr Abdullahi noted that security agencies in the state are all aware of the incidences, adding that recoveries of their members’ death bodies and even those of the livestock were made with assistance of the police and men of Operations Safe Haven.
“I am urging the state government to step up its efforts to ensure safety of lives and property of all citizens.
“I am also making a strong appeal to all of us, the Fulani, the Berom and Irigwe people to understand that there is no alternative to peace,” he said.
