The Middle Belt Ethnic Youth Leaders Assembly (MBEYLA) takes this opportunity to respond to the recent allegations by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) regarding the poisoning of cattle in Plateau State. While we unequivocally condemn any form of violence, including the harming of livestock, we find it most ironic that MACBAN would feign ignorance of the broader and far-reaching violence inflicted upon our people by Fulani herders over the years.
- The Shameless Claim of Victimhood:
MACBAN’s claim that its cattle were poisoned in Plateau State, while unfortunate, is hardly a new occurrence in a region that has suffered persistent attacks by herders. For far too long, the Fulani herders, backed by their association, have operated under the deceptive guise of being victims. The reality, however, is that these herders have continually perpetrated violence against innocent Plateau citizens, including kidnappings, killings, and the destruction of farmlands, many of which have gone unpunished. So, while the loss of cattle is regrettable, it is profoundly hypocritical for MACBAN to invoke their supposed victimhood when, in fact, they have been at the helm of the very terror that has led to the deaths of thousands of our people.
- The Pattern of Violence:
Let us not forget that it is under the leadership of MACBAN that countless instances of brutal attacks on our villages have unfolded. Yet, when these acts of violence are met with resistance or even suspicion, their immediate reaction is to play the victim card, turning the very perpetrators into the aggrieved. Just recently, during the wave of killings in Jos, many of our people were slaughtered in cold blood, with little to no action taken by the authorities. Despite these atrocities, it seems that MACBAN is determined to shift the narrative by attempting to demonize innocent communities that have been subject to years of oppression.
- False Narrative of Provocation:
Mr. Ibrahim Babayo of MACBAN claims that recent incidents, including cattle rustling and poisoning, are a “calculated attempt to provoke herders.” This suggestion is not only unfounded, but also disingenuous. If anyone is being provoked, it is the long-suffering indigenous people of Plateau, who have endured unspeakable violence and the pillaging of their land. It is truly audacious for MACBAN to now argue that these provocations are unprovoked, when the record of violence from the Fulani herders is well-documented. The reality is that MACBAN’s attempts to turn the tables and paint themselves as victims only highlight the deepening crisis of impunity enjoyed by the Fulani in Nigeria.
- The Disregard for Lives and Property:
MACBAN’s allegations must also be viewed in the context of the repeated destruction of the lives and livelihoods of Plateau’s indigenous people. It is a matter of public record that the Fulani have frequently gone beyond grazing their cattle to razing entire villages, raping women, and even engaging in large-scale land grabs, all under the pretext of “grazing rights.” These actions, carried out in broad daylight, are met with little to no resistance from security agencies. This raises a troubling question: are the security forces complicit in allowing this egregious cycle of violence to continue unchecked, while simultaneously accepting the fabricated claims of herders? The so-called “rustling” of cattle or the “poisoning” of livestock cannot be viewed in isolation but must be understood as part of a broader, orchestrated attempt to further subjugate the indigenous communities of Plateau State.
- The Call for Accountability:
Instead of incessantly portraying themselves as victims, MACBAN and their affiliates must face the truth of the immense suffering they have caused. The ongoing conflict, whether it be the killing of livestock or the slaughter of human beings, is not a mere coincidence or isolated act; it is the direct consequence of a systematic pattern of aggression against innocent people. As much as MACBAN may call for investigations into alleged incidents of cattle poisoning, they must also be held accountable for the countless lives lost due to the actions of their members.
- The Middle Belt People Will Not Be Intimidated:
The people of Plateau State and Middle Belt have long suffered in silence, but they will no longer tolerate the reckless disregard for their lives and property. MBEYLA stands firm in its call for justice and accountability. We demand an end to the systematic killing of our people and a halt to the continuous attempt by MACBAN to distort the narrative of violence in the region. The lives of Plateau’s indigenous people are not expendable, and we will not allow any group to continue to perpetrate violence under the cover of lies and manipulation.
We call upon the Nigerian government, the security agencies, and all well-meaning citizens to join us in demanding an end to these atrocities. The time for turning a blind eye is over. We will no longer accept the narrative that our people are the aggressors when, in fact, it is the Fulani herders who have been the aggressors for decades.
Conclusion:
MACBAN, your attempt to claim the victimhood card is not only disingenuous but also deeply offensive to the memories of our fallen brothers and sisters. You may try to shift the blame, but the truth is undeniable. You kill our people, destroy our homes, and steal our resources, and yet you still have the audacity to claim to be the victims. No, Fulani, you cannot be clever by half. You will not deceive the people of Plateau State any longer. The truth will prevail, and justice will be served.
The Middle Belt Ethnic Youth Leaders Assembly (MBEYLA) remains resolute in its stance for justice and accountability. We will not rest until the perpetrators of violence are held accountable for their actions.
Dan Ga’allah
Secretary General, MBEYLA & National President, Zaar Youth Development Association (ZAYODA)
Amb Miri Timnan Nyantau (M.T.N),
President General, MBEYLA & National President, Tarok Progressive Youth Association (TAPYA)