MACBAN raises alarm over alleged killing of 43 herders by vigilantes
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has condemned the killing of at least 43 Fulani herders in coordinated attacks by suspected vigilante groups across parts of Kebbi and Niger States, warning that such acts could worsen insecurity in the country.
The incident was made public in a post shared on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama on Wednesday.
According to Makama, the attacks took place between October 24 and 26, affecting several rural settlements in Argungu, Arewa, and Bunza Local Government Areas of Kebbi State, where armed vigilantes allegedly invaded Fulani communities, killed dozens, and set houses ablaze.
Makama revealed that at least 37 people were killed in the affected areas, while more than 200 houses were destroyed.
Many residents, including women and children, have been displaced, with several still missing.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Bello Aliyu Gotomo, and issued in Abuja, MACBAN described the killings and destruction of herders’ homes as unjustified and inhumane.
“Now, in addition to the threats from bandits who extort and harass herders, peaceful Fulani communities are being attacked by vigilantes acting outside the law,” Gotomo said.
“Allowing people to take the law into their hands will only worsen insecurity across the country.”
The association also expressed grief over a similar incident in Edati Local Government Area of Niger State, where six Fulani herders were killed and more than 60 houses burnt on September 21.
MACBAN said the violence followed a misunderstanding between a farmer and a herder, even though the herder involved was already in police custody before the attacks took place.
MACBAN commended the Governor of Niger State for his swift intervention, which it said helped to prevent the crisis from escalating further.
The association urged the Federal, State, and Local Governments to take urgent steps to address the growing insecurity in rural areas, saying the crisis has already affected both farming and livestock activities.
“The security situation in rural communities requires immediate and coordinated attention from all tiers of government to protect lives and livelihoods,” Gotomo added.