In the aftermath of a recent series of attacks on communities in Mangu, Plateau State, tensions have escalated, resulting in a tragic loss of lives. The Chairman of the Miyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Muhammad Nuru Abdullahi, has accused the Mwaghavul people of perpetrating a planned genocide against the Fulani, claiming that 100 Fulani individuals were killed. MACBAN further alleges that mercenaries from the Berom and Tarok tribes, known for their expertise in cattle rustling, have been hired and brought into the area to sow chaos. However, the Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) and the Ngwang Ishi O’Tarok (NIO), two socio-cultural organizations representing the Mwaghavul and Tarok people, respectively, strongly deny these allegations.
MACBAN’s Claims and Allegations
MACBAN, in a statement released in Jos, asserts that the arrival of these mercenaries may lead to isolated killings and increased instances of cattle rustling. They highlight the alarming number of missing Fulani women, children, and elderly individuals, along with the disturbing discovery of 100 deceased bodies left in the bush. Furthermore, they report that approximately 25,000 livestock are unaccounted for. MACBAN emphasizes the urgency of recovering these missing individuals and animals, appealing for support from security agencies to ensure their proper burial.
Rebuttals from MDA and NIO
The MDA and NIO have swiftly responded to MACBAN’s allegations, vehemently denying any involvement in a genocidal mission against the Fulani people. The Director of Public Affairs for MDA, Da Lawrence Kyarshik, emphasizes that the Mwaghavul people have consistently welcomed and accepted the Fulani into their communities during times of crisis, contradicting MACBAN’s claims. Similarly, the leadership of NIO, as expressed by Hon. Daniel Nanbol Listick, the National Publicity Secretary, dissociates themselves from the baseless and unsubstantiated allegations made by MACBAN’s state chairman. They express their deep concern over these accusations and pledge to investigate the attacks to uncover the truth.
The Tarok Nation, represented by NIO, expresses its solidarity with the victims of the tragic situation in Mangu. They assert that no Tarok individual has been involved in the alleged attacks or authorized any such actions. The Tarok people condemn the unwarranted allegations and promise to diligently investigate the circumstances surrounding the attacks, aiming to uncover the truth behind these unfortunate events. They stand united in their commitment to finding justice and ensuring that the real perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
The recent violent clashes in Plateau State have led to a distressing loss of lives and heightened tensions between different ethnic groups. While MACBAN has accused the Mwaghavul people of orchestrating a genocide against the Fulani, the MDA and NIO have strongly refuted these claims, emphasizing their commitment to peaceful coexistence and condemning the violence. As the investigations unfold, it is essential to foster unity, understanding, and dialogue among the various communities to restore peace and prevent further escalation of conflict. Only by working together, seeking the truth, and addressing the root causes of these clashes can a path towards reconciliation and lasting peace be forged.
