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MACBAN alleges 18 cows killed, 130 rustled in Plateau community

Benue State – August 4, 2025

The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has alleged the killing of 18 cows and the rustling of 130 others in Howl community, Bokkos Local Government Area, during incidents that occurred in the past week.

In an official statement obtained by DAILY POST, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the Plateau State MACBAN Chairman, stated that the attacks were carried out by suspected local assailants. The cattle, according to him, were stolen on Wednesday, July 30th, and remain missing despite efforts to trace their whereabouts.

"Since Wednesday, July 30, we have been searching for the cattle. Armed men rustled 130 of them and shot dead 18 others," Babayo reported.

He further alleged that members of the Ron ethnic group, who form a majority in the area, were responsible for both the killings and the thefts. Babayo expressed frustration at what he described as the inadequate response from local security agencies, despite the matter being formally reported.

In response to the accusations, Barr. John Apollos Maton, Secretary of the Ron Kulere Jos and Environs, firmly denied any involvement by the Ron people. In a brief rebuttal, Maton described the allegations as unfounded and “an attempt to deflect attention from violent acts allegedly carried out by Fulani militias.”

“These claims are fictional narratives being used to justify further attacks on our communities. It’s a pattern that must be closely scrutinized by security and intelligence agencies,” Maton said, urging vigilance to prevent potential retaliatory violence.

The situation has further heightened tensions in a region already plagued by cyclical violence and deep-seated ethnic mistrust. Community leaders and security stakeholders have been urged to exercise restraint and pursue peaceful resolution through dialogue and lawful channels.