The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has suspended the movement of cattle to the Kara Bukuru Livestock Market in Jos South Local Council, Plateau State, following a series of attacks on herders and vehicles conveying cattle. The suspension, which took effect on October 6, 2026, will last until October 20, 2026. This decision was made to mourn those killed and reduce further risks to members.
The suspension comes after an attack on Sunday, in which gunmen reportedly opened fire on herders returning home to Bassa from the market, killing two people and injuring eight others. This incident occurred less than three weeks after another attack on September 20, when gunmen attacked herders in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Council, killing five and injuring one. These attacks have raised concerns about the safety of herders and cattle owners in the region.
Fulani leaders, including local government chairmen, Ardos, and cattle owners, met in Jos to deliberate on the situation. In a communique signed by the Plateau MACBAN chairman, Ibrahim Yousuf Babayo, the leaders resolved to suspend the movement of cattle to the Kara Bukuru Livestock Market. The meeting aimed to find a solution to the recurring attacks and ensure the safety of herders and cattle owners.
The association called on security agencies to investigate both attacks, identify and prosecute those responsible, and strengthen security around the affected routes. MACBAN also appealed for the protection of all citizens, irrespective of ethnic background. The Fulani community reaffirmed its commitment to peace and cooperation with security agencies.
The attacks have caused fear and tension among herders and cattle owners in the region. The suspension of cattle movement to the Kara Bukuru Livestock Market is expected to have an impact on the local economy. The market is a major hub for cattle trading in the region, and the suspension is likely to affect traders and consumers alike.
MACBAN has urged its members to remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid taking the law into their own hands. The association is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of herders and cattle owners. The Plateau State government has not made an official statement on the attacks and the suspension of cattle movement.
The suspension of cattle movement to the Kara Bukuru Livestock Market is a temporary measure aimed at reducing risks to herders and cattle owners. MACBAN and other stakeholders are expected to continue working with security agencies to find a lasting solution to the recurring attacks. The incident highlights the need for improved security and cooperation between herders, cattle owners, and security agencies in the region.
Key points
- MACBAN suspends cattle movement to Kara Bukuru Livestock Market until October 20, 2026, following series of attacks on herders and vehicles conveying cattle.
- The suspension aims to mourn those killed and reduce further risks to members.
- MACBAN calls on security agencies to investigate attacks, identify and prosecute those responsible, and strengthen security around affected routes.
