The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has urged the state government and security agencies to hold the Berom Youth-Moulders Association (BYM), the Berom Diaspora Coalition (BDC), and similar organizations accountable for any future attacks in local communities, particularly in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas.
In a counter-statement responding to allegations, MACBAN dismissed the claims by BDC as unfounded and provocative. During a press conference on Wednesday, BDC had called on authorities to designate the Mahanga community in Riyom LGA as a terrorist enclave, alleging it serves as a sanctuary for armed Fulani bandits and terrorists who launch attacks on villages and retreat there.
MACBAN, through a statement signed by its state chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, rejected these accusations, labeling them as baseless and likely to worsen tensions in the state. The association asserted that no Plateau community is currently occupied by herders and described the allegations as misleading.
Entitled “Rejection of baseless allegations and call for responsible public discourse,” the statement emphasized that the Mahanga community has remained peaceful with no evidence of harboring criminals. It noted that security operations in parts of Vom District in Jos South LGA and Fan District in Barkin Ladi LGA have uncovered illegal arms and weapons manufacturing, suggesting those areas should be the focus of security assessments.
MACBAN expressed concern that groups claiming to represent Berom interests, especially from the diaspora, are using rhetoric that fosters division rather than unity. It called on both the Plateau State and Federal Governments to monitor the activities and statements of BYM, BDC, and related groups, and to hold them accountable for any incitement to conflict or disruption of public peace.
“We urge all citizens of Plateau State to ignore these false and misleading claims and remain committed to peaceful coexistence. Dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law remain the only sustainable path to lasting peace in our dear state,” the statement concluded.