Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria has condemned the killing of pastoralists in Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State. The group called for swift justice in a statement released Monday.
State Secretary Suleiman Muhammed described the attack as barbaric and unacceptable. He said circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear.
Nine people lost their lives in the incident. Those killed were Isiaka Lawal, Larai Musa, Abdullahi Isiaka, Isah Isiaka, Saleh Isiaka, Samsiya Adamu, Asma'u Siuni, Basullube Musa, and Bello Musa.
Three others were wounded in the attack. Husseini Haruna, Abdullahi Abdullahi, and Sa'ida Haruna are currently receiving medical care.
MACBAN expressed serious concern over the violence. In its words, security agencies must act quickly to investigate and arrest the perpetrators.
The group warned that repeated attacks could destabilize the region. "Continued targeting of innocent pastoral communities poses a serious threat to peaceful coexistence," the statement noted.
Tensions could worsen if urgent action isn't taken. MACBAN stressed that all communities must live peacefully together.
The association appealed to federal and state governments for help. Humanitarian organisations should provide relief materials and medical support to affected families, it urged.
MACBAN also called on pastoralists to remain calm and law-abiding. Members should allow investigators to do their work properly without interference.
