The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has warned against alleged attacks on its members and the killing of their livestock across the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the group alleged that more than 2,000 cows and over 100 herders had been killed since the beginning of 2026.
MACBAN attributed the alleged attacks to local militia groups it identified as the “Berom and Mangu Militias,” particularly in Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Jos East, Bassa and Mangu Local Government Areas.
Babayo said the organisation had investigated the incidents and found that, contrary to claims that Fulani bandits were responsible for some of the attacks, local militia groups were allegedly behind several of them.
He further alleged that the groups not only killed herders and their livestock but also stole cattle during the attacks.
Reacting to an alleged incident in Bangai Village, Riyom Local Government Area, Babayo said a herder, Alhaji Jeji Abdullahi, was reportedly ambushed on Wednesday, August 26, with 21 of his cows killed.
MACBAN condemned the incident, describing the killing of livestock as a serious threat to the livelihood of pastoralist families and peaceful coexistence in the state.
The association said it was concerned that attacks on herders and their livestock had continued despite repeated appeals for restraint and justice.
“We will no longer fold our hands and watch as these local militia gangs, especially the Berom and Mangu Militias, deliberately and systematically attack our people, kill them and their cows,” Babayo said.
He added that the association would pursue justice through lawful channels within and outside Nigeria.
MACBAN called on the Plateau State Government, the Inspector-General of Police, the Commander of Operation Safe Haven, the Department of State Services and other security agencies to investigate the alleged attacks, identify those responsible and ensure their prosecution.
The group also urged authorities to strengthen security around vulnerable pastoral communities and grazing areas, while appealing to members of the Fulani community to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.
MACBAN stressed that the continued destruction of lives and property must end, regardless of ethnicity or occupation.
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