The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria has strongly denied allegations that it is trying to shield a suspect arrested in connection with a recent attack in the state.
The group was reacting to claims made by the Berom Youth Moulders Association, which accused the Fulani association of planning to obstruct justice by protecting the suspect through illegal means.
The disagreement between the two groups has raised fresh concerns about tension in Plateau State, a region that has faced repeated violence linked to ethnic and communal conflicts over the years.
In a statement issued on Thursday, BYM, through its National President, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, alleged that it had uncovered a plan by MACBAN to help the suspect avoid prosecution.
According to the group, it received “credible intelligence from a very reliable source” suggesting that efforts were underway to obtain a forged medical report. The alleged plan, BYM claimed, was to present the suspect as mentally unstable so that his statements to security agencies would be dismissed.
The statement further alleged that the move was already at an advanced stage, raising concerns about possible interference in the ongoing investigation into the attack.
The attack in question reportedly took place in Heipang, a community in Plateau State, although full details of the incident have not been officially disclosed. Incidents like this often draw strong reactions due to the history of clashes in the area, especially between farming and herding communities.
However, in a swift response on Friday, MACBAN rejected the allegations in strong terms, describing them as false, misleading, and capable of causing unrest.
In a statement signed by its Plateau State Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the association said it had no involvement in any attempt to shield a suspect or interfere with justice.
“The attention of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Plateau State chapter, has been drawn to the recent allegations circulated by the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) concerning an alleged plan to shield a suspect linked to the unfortunate incident in Heipang,” the statement read.
“We wish to categorically state that these allegations are baseless, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to incite tension and misinform the public.”
MACBAN insisted that it is a law-abiding organisation committed to peace and stability in Plateau State and across Nigeria. The group also stressed that it does not support criminal activities or any attempt to obstruct justice.
“At no time has MACBAN engaged in, nor does it support, any act aimed at obstructing justice or shielding individuals involved in criminal activities,” the statement continued.
“We strongly believe that anyone found culpable in any act of violence or criminality should face the full weight of the law, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or organisational affiliation.”
The association expressed concern that such allegations, if left unchecked, could worsen the already fragile peace in Plateau State. It noted that the region has suffered for years from cycles of violence, often fuelled by misinformation, suspicion, and lack of trust among communities.
Plateau State has long been one of Nigeria’s most conflict-prone areas, with clashes frequently reported between different ethnic and religious groups. These conflicts are often linked to disputes over land, grazing rights, and political representation.
MACBAN therefore called on BYM to avoid making unverified claims and instead work towards peacebuilding efforts in the state.
“We therefore call on the Berom Youth Moulders Association to refrain from spreading unverified claims and instead collaborate with all relevant stakeholders in promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and unity in Plateau State,” Babayo said.
The association also reaffirmed its willingness to work with security agencies, government authorities, and community leaders to ensure peace and stability.
It urged members of the public to remain calm and not be influenced by what it described as unfounded allegations. According to the group, security agencies are capable of carrying out their investigations without interference.
“We urge the general public to disregard these unfounded allegations and remain calm, as security agencies are fully capable of handling any investigations professionally,” the statement added.
“Together, we must prioritise peace over provocation and truth over speculation.”
The exchange between MACBAN and BYM highlights the deep divisions that still exist in parts of Plateau State. While both groups claim to support peace, their public disagreement shows how quickly tensions can rise when sensitive issues are involved.
They also stress the need for community leaders and organisations to avoid statements that could be seen as inflammatory or divisive, especially in areas with a history of conflict.
As of the time of this report, security agencies have not publicly commented on the allegations or the status of the suspect mentioned by BYM.
Residents of Plateau State are watching closely, hoping that the situation will not lead to further unrest. Many have called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and allow due process to take its course.
For now, the focus remains on maintaining peace and ensuring that justice is served in a fair and transparent manner.