A group representing Fulani herders in Nigeria has made serious allegations against the Plateau State Government, claiming that it supports repeated attacks and killings of Fulani pastoralists and their livestock. The group specifically mentioned Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Mangu Local Government Areas as areas where herders have faced attacks despite not committing any criminal offences. This development has raised concerns about the safety of herders and their livestock in the state.
According to the group, investigations linked some of the attacks to security personnel operating in the state. The group also accused security agencies of failing to respond promptly to reports of attacks, with officers sometimes failing to arrive at the scenes or only showing up after the incidents had occurred. Furthermore, the group alleged that some suspects arrested in connection with the attacks were released shortly after being taken into custody.
The group expressed concern over what it described as a possible agenda to force Fulani herders out of Plateau State. It insisted that such an outcome would not be accepted and urged the Plateau State Government to distance itself from the alleged attacks. The group also called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks and compensation for victims who had lost their lives and livestock.
The Fulani group demanded lasting measures to guarantee the safety of Fulani pastoralists and other communities across the state. It warned that failure to address the alleged killings and ensure justice could force herders to resort to self-defence, citing Nigerian law that allows citizens to defend themselves. The group described its demands as an ultimatum rather than an appeal and called on the state government to act immediately.
The allegations against the Plateau State Government and security agencies have not been independently verified. The government and relevant security authorities have yet to respond to the claims. This development comes amid continuing security challenges in Plateau State, where attacks, reprisals and disputes involving farming and pastoral communities have raised concerns about civilian safety and peaceful coexistence.
The situation in Plateau State remains volatile, with tensions between herders and farming communities contributing to the insecurity. The Fulani group's allegations have added to the complexity of the situation, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the conflicts. The Plateau State Government faces pressure to respond to the allegations and take concrete steps to address the security concerns of all communities in the state.
The incident has sparked fears of further violence and instability in the region. Key stakeholders, including government officials, security experts and community leaders, are expected to engage in dialogue to find a lasting solution to the crisis.
Key points
- The Fulani group demands the Plateau State Government to distance itself from the alleged attacks and take concrete steps to guarantee the safety of Fulani pastoralists and other communities.
- The group warns that failure to address the alleged killings and ensure justice could force herders to resort to self-defence.
- The allegations against the Plateau State Government and security agencies have not been independently verified.
