Jos Bloodbath: Miyetti Allah Slams Religious Leaders Over Inflammatory Rhetoric, Urges Restraint

 

 

By Rotela Oguns

 

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has attributed the killings that happened in Plateau State over the weekend to what the association described as “reckless and inflammatory rhetoric” of religious leaders in the state.

 

MACBAN noted that religious leaders unguarded utterances and irresponsibility have contributed to the growing violence in Angwan Rukuba community  adding that the situation is threatening peaceful coexistence  among residents of the entire Plateau State.

 

The association’s reaction was contained  in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Chairman, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma.

 

The statement which condemned the tragic development in unmistakable terms stressed that perpetrators of the dastardly acts should be brought to book to serve as deterrent to others adding that impunity only “emboldens further violence”.

 

“MACBAN views with grave concern the recurring cycle of violence in Plateau which continues to undermine peaceful coexistence and threaten national unity,” he said.

 

 

“We are particularly disturbed by the alleged role played by some religious leaders and influencers. Instead of promoting peace and tolerance, they have chosen to fan the embers of division through reckless and inflammatory rhetoric.

 

 

“Such actions are irresponsible, dangerous, and contribute directly to the escalation of violence and intolerance in our communities.” the statement added.

 

 

The statement continued, “The sanctity of human life must remain non-negotiable. MACBAN reiterates its commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national unity,”

 

“We stand ready to collaborate with all stakeholders, government, civil society, religious institutions, and community leaders to restore lasting peace in Plateau and across Nigeria.”

 

 

Suggesting the way forward, Othman-Ngelzarma called on all religious, traditional, and community leaders to exercise restraint, promote dialogue, and actively work towards a de-escalation.

 

 

“The time for decisive action is now. Enough of the bloodshed.”

 

“Words matter. In fragile environments like ours, they can either heal or destroy,

 

“MACBAN also calls on security agencies to act decisively and professionally.

 

“Those responsible for instigating violence, whether through direct action or inciting statements, must be identified, investigated, and brought to justice without fear or favour. Impunity only emboldens further violence,” the statement concluded.

 

 

Trouble started on Sunday when suspected bandits  attacked  Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North LGA of the state, killing about 28 people and injuring many others.

 

According to reports the attackers, who struck at a popular bar in the community, were armed with guns, machete and other weapons with which they inflicted pain and death on the inhabitants of the community.

 

The state government has since declared a 48 hour curfew in the affected local government area following the outrage that greeted the incident