The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Langai Ward, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Alhaji Yakubu, has reportedly been shot by gunmen.
Security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed the incident in a statement posted on X on Sunday, raising fresh concerns over the security situation in the area.
According to Makama, preliminary information alleged that members of a Mwaghavul militia group were responsible for the attack. However, the identities of the suspected attackers and the circumstances surrounding the shooting have yet to be independently established.
The incident comes amid persistent security challenges in Mangu, where recurring attacks, cattle rustling and retaliatory violence have heightened tensions between farming and herding communities.
Makama noted that the prolonged conflict in the area had continued to expose residents to violence, displacement and the loss of livelihoods.
He added that allegations of targeted attacks against civilians had further complicated efforts to rebuild trust among communities affected by the unrest.
Local security groups and security personnel, particularly Operation Rainbow, have also faced scrutiny over allegations of misconduct. These include claims of targeted attacks and cattle rustling involving the state-backed security outfit.
Call For Investigation, Protection Of Residents
Reacting to the reported shooting, Makama stressed the need for security agencies to establish the circumstances of the attack, identify those responsible and take steps to prevent further violence or reprisals.
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He warned that continued attacks could deepen existing divisions and expose more residents to insecurity.
Makama also emphasised that residents of Mangu should be protected irrespective of their ethnic background or occupation, urging communities to reject violence and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
