MIYETTI ALLAH CONDEMNS ‘IRRESPONSIBLE’ RHETORIC, BLAMES RELIGIOUS LEADERS OVER JOS ATTACK
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria has strongly criticised what it described as the “irresponsible and dangerous” role of certain religious leaders in the aftermath of a deadly attack in Plateau State, warning that inflammatory rhetoric risks deepening tensions and undermining peace efforts in the region.
In a statement issued following the violence in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North Local Government Area, the association alleged that some clerics contributed to escalating the situation through comments and narratives that it said could incite division and reprisals. The group urged religious figures to exercise restraint and promote messages of peace, particularly in conflict-prone areas where tensions remain fragile.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday, reportedly left about 28 people dead and several others injured, according to local sources and community leaders. The incident has sparked widespread concern and condemnation, with authorities launching investigations into the circumstances surrounding the violence and the identities of those responsible.
MACBAN, a prominent association representing cattle breeders across Nigeria, expressed concern that narratives framed along religious or ethnic lines could complicate efforts to manage the crisis. The group emphasised the need for responsible leadership at all levels, particularly from influential figures whose statements can shape public perception and reactions in volatile environments.
“Religious leaders must be cautious in their utterances at times like this,” the association said, warning that unverified claims or emotionally charged commentary could inflame passions and trigger further violence. It called on all stakeholders, including community leaders and civil society groups, to prioritise unity and avoid actions capable of worsening the situation.
The association also reiterated its condemnation of the attack itself, describing the killings as unacceptable and calling for swift action by security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators. It urged the government to intensify security presence in affected communities and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Plateau State has long been a flashpoint for communal violence, with clashes often linked to a complex mix of factors including land disputes, ethnic tensions and competition over resources. Incidents such as the Angwan Rukuba attack have frequently reignited debates over the role of leadership, security responses and the influence of public rhetoric in either mitigating or exacerbating crises.
Security agencies have since increased patrols in parts of Jos North and surrounding areas, as authorities seek to prevent further escalation. Officials have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations, while community leaders continue to call for dialogue and reconciliation.
Observers say the latest remarks by MACBAN highlight the broader challenge of managing narratives in conflict situations, where misinformation and divisive messaging can quickly spread and fuel unrest. Experts note that religious and traditional leaders play a critical role in shaping community responses and can either help de-escalate tensions or contribute to their intensification depending on their approach.
The federal government has yet to issue a detailed response to MACBAN’s specific claims regarding the involvement of religious leaders, but has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and stability in Plateau State. Officials have stressed the importance of unity and collective responsibility in addressing the underlying causes of violence.
As investigations continue, stakeholders across Plateau State are being urged to focus on reconciliation and long-term peacebuilding efforts. The incident has once again underscored the urgent need for coordinated strategies that combine security measures with community engagement and conflict resolution initiatives.
For residents of Angwan Rukuba and surrounding communities, the priority remains healing from the trauma of the attack and preventing further loss of life. While tensions remain high, calls for restraint and responsible leadership are growing louder as the state grapples with yet another episode of violence.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments