A coalition of Fulani groups in Plateau State claimed to have lost approximately 350 members and 834 cows between October 2023 and January 2024 in various communities of Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu local government areas. The groups, including Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Gan Allah Fulani Development Association of Nigeria (GAFDAN), Bajoil Fulani, Jonde Jam Kautal Hore, and Lawul Fulaku, made these assertions during a press conference in Jos.
According to Malam Nura Adullahi, the State Chairman of MACBAN, Fulani members residing in different communities have faced molestation, maltreatment, intimidation, and even loss of lives. The coalition cited atrocities, including the burning down of over 115 villages, leading to the destruction of properties and food items. They also reported that household properties worth billions of naira were lost during the violence, with Fulani communities displaced from eight districts.
The affected districts, according to Adullahi, include Mangu, Panyam, Pushit, Kerang, Bwoi, Kombun, Ampang, and Mangum. Some of the displaced villages mentioned are Bwoi, Kombun, Sarfai, Rinago, Jukga, Kuwes, Kaangag, Farinkasa, Kerana, Lugga, Dimeza, Fungong, Gindirin, Gok, Bunghan, Gida, Milet, Rufwang, Dejwak, Lupo, and Wushik.
The coalition emphasized that these atrocities are documented by security agencies in the state. They revealed that between August 29, 2023, and December 24, 2023, a total of 834 cattle were rustled in specific areas of Bokkos. The statement also highlighted brutal killings, burning of villages, and the displacement of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
While expressing their grievances, the groups called on their members to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands. They urged security agencies to investigate the recent incidents and ensure justice. The situation reflects ongoing tensions and conflicts between different communities in the region, raising concerns about the need for peaceful coexistence and effective conflict resolution mechanisms.
