Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria has firmly rejected allegations by social critic and advocate Emmanuel Jelan that about 16 communities in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area have been forcefully taken over and occupied by Fulani terrorists. In a statement issued on Thursday, July 16, 2026, and signed by its Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the herders' body described the claims as "unsubstantiated, misleading, and unsupported by verifiable facts".
Jelan had raised the alarm in an open letter to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, stating that despite denials by the government and Fulani groups, available records show that about 16 rural communities have been annexed either completely or partially by terrorists. He listed the affected communities, noting that in most of the villages, residents no longer have access to their houses and farmlands for fear of their lives, and that schools, hospitals, and worship places have all been shut down.
However, MACBAN, in a statement titled "Re: Response to recent allegations against the Fulani community in Barkin Ladi LGA," said the allegations were not only unsubstantiated but also have the potential to heighten tensions and undermine ongoing peacebuilding efforts. "Public statements on sensitive security matters should be made with caution and responsibility, as they have the potential to heighten tensions and undermine ongoing peacebuilding efforts," the statement read.
"We categorically reject the claim that the Fulani community in Plateau State has grabbed or unlawfully occupied anyone's land," MACBAN stated. The association insisted that such sweeping allegations do not reflect the reality of the long-standing presence and lawful activities of pastoral communities across the state. The herders' body expressed concern that public statements not based on credible evidence may contribute to misunderstanding and deepen divisions.
MACBAN reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for the rule of law, and constructive engagement with government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and all communities in Plateau State. It encouraged anyone with credible evidence of wrongdoing by any individual to present such evidence to the appropriate law enforcement authorities rather than making generalized accusations against an entire ethnic community.
The controversy comes amid a series of violent incidents in Barkin Ladi. On Thursday, July 16, 2026, gunmen killed eight cattle and injured several others in a fresh attack in Yarwe village, Fan District of Barkin Ladi. MACBAN confirmed the attack and condemned the killing of the cows by suspected Berom militias, calling on the government and security agencies to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. The association also appealed to members of the Fulani community to remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
MACBAN has consistently rejected allegations of land grabbing and occupation by Fulani communities in Plateau State. In a previous statement in May 2026, the association refuted similar allegations, describing claims that Fulani communities are occupying and taking over Berom ancestral lands in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Jos South as false. The group noted that for decades, Fulani settlements and grazing communities in these areas have suffered repeated attacks, forceful displacement, destruction of homes, and confiscation of properties.
The Plateau State Government has acknowledged the presence of terrorists in some communities around Barkin Ladi. Governor Caleb Mutfwang had earlier confirmed that government intelligence revealed the presence of terrorists in the area. However, MACBAN insists that no part of Plateau State is being occupied by the Fulani people, and has called on all stakeholders to avoid actions or narratives that could further inflame an already sensitive situation.
The association urged all parties to embrace responsible communication and mutual respect in the interest of unity and stability in Plateau State, stressing that dialogue, justice, and lasting peace remain the sustainable path forward.
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