A youth group representing the Fulani community, known as ‘Concerned Fulani Youths in Plateau,’ has expressed that ongoing violence in Plateau State is unlikely to cease unless local gangs, specifically the “Berom Militias,” halt their attacks on herdsmen and their livestock. The group made these statements during a meeting in Jos on Tuesday, emphasizing that true peace and reconciliation cannot be realized without addressing these conflicts.
The group is advocating for action, stating that while the Fulani people seek peaceful coexistence with their host communities, they will not passively accept violence against their members or the theft of their cattle. In a communique released after the meeting and signed by their leader, Saleh Umaru, the Concerned Fulani Youths highlighted that many of the violent incidents being attributed to Fulani herdsmen are actually retaliatory actions in response to assaults on their community.
“After comprehensive consultations with various Fulani groups, we concluded that a principal cause of the ongoing violence, particularly in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas, stems from attacks and killings by the Berom Militia,” Umaru stated.
He acknowledged that while some herdsmen engage in criminal behavior, the majority are peace-loving individuals. “Fulani people wish to live peacefully while tending to their cattle. However, no one can remain passive when faced with the murder of their kin or the violation of their community,” he added, emphasizing that reprisal actions are a natural consequence of such violence.
Umaru pointed out that numerous Fulani settlements have been overrun and that hundreds of herders have lost their lives, with thousands of cattle reported stolen. He urged the Plateau State government, led by His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to implement laws criminalizing ethnic militias and for security forces to take decisive action against these gangs. He concluded that without these steps, lasting peace in Plateau State will remain elusive.
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