The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has raised the alarm after six Fulani herders were killed and more than 100 cattle stolen across multiple local government areas in Enugu State over the past two months. The state of concern, voiced by MACBAN’s National Deputy Director General, Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, follows relentless attacks in Akpugo (Nkanu West LGA), Uzo-Uwani, Udi, Ezeagu, and Oji River LGAs.
During a press briefing in Enugu, Siddiki, flanked by grieving families and South-East MACBAN officials, revealed that the most recent incident occurred in Obinofia Akpugo, where herders Umaru Atiku and Isa Jibrin were brutally murdered. These violent occurrences have deeply distressing effects, casting fear across Fulani communities and destroying livelihoods.
Of particular alarm, Siddiki alleges that some attackers wore uniforms resembling those of forest guards, raising questions about possible infiltration or impersonation. Siddiki said:
“Security agencies must distinguish between genuine pastoralists and criminal elements. It is unacceptable that while our people are being killed, we are still unfairly accused of crimes we know nothing about.”
Adding that previous peace accords, including those negotiated with the Enugu State Government over the Uzo-Uwani crisis, had yielded no lasting safety, Siddiki warned that continued attacks threaten to derail fragile peace. He appealed for urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed and loss. “This dangerous trend calls for urgent government intervention to prevent further escalation,” he declared.
In addition to demanding a transparent investigation, justice for victims, and prompt compensation for the affected families, Siddiki emphasized that MACBAN remains committed to peaceful coexistence. The association condemned all criminal acts, pledged to cooperate with security agencies, and urged authorities to act decisively to curb violence.
This latest wave of targeted attacks reflects ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s herder-farmer landscape, where Fulani pastoralists often find themselves scapegoated. The situation in Enugu highlights the urgent need for strengthened security frameworks, clear identification of criminal actors, and reaffirmation of the pastoralists’ right to safe livelihoods. In the broader context of Nigeria’s enduring land-use and communal conflicts, this incident underlines the fragility of peace and the importance of proactive governance responses.
