By Palma Ileye
Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria, KACRAN, has condemned the brutal killing of innocent people by bandits in Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State also urging all parties to embrace peace, justice for sustainable and economic development in the State and the country as a whole.
This call was made in a statement signed by Hon. Khalil Moh’d Bello, National President of KACRAN and issued to newsmen in Abuja.
KACRAN in the statement said, it was an organization dedicated to fostering peace and unity between herders and farmers, and actively working to end insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West and North-Central regions, firmly rejects these unacceptable acts of violence.
The association stated that its absolute condemnation of these deeply painful and unfortunate killings in Riyom Local Government stems from the fact that they occurred at a time when Nigeria was still mourning the passing of the Late President Muhammadu Buhari, and when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and the Executive Chairman of Riyom Local Government Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa were diligently working to restore permanent peace and unity to the region, Plateau State, and Nigeria at large.
KACRAN asserted that there was no justification whatsoever for individuals to surround homes under the cover of darkness and indiscriminately attack and kill innocent people.
The association viewed the tragic events in Riyom, which led to the deaths of innocent women and children, as a heinous crime that has no place in a nation blessed with diverse cultures and a rich heritage.
In its call for end to violence and respect for law, KACRAN called on all perpetrators, including bandits, to cease their persistent attacks on villages and the destruction of property urging, “We advise them to understand that they must never take the law into their own hands. If they have any grievances or have been attacked by youths or volunteer groups, they should report their complaints to law enforcement agencies for appropriate action, rather than resorting to retaliatory violence against innocent women and children who are not involved in any disputes.”
Furthermore, KACRAN appealed to youths and volunteer groups across the country to refrain from attacking innocent villagers, killing their animals, burning their homes, and destroying their properties in the name of revenge.
The association stressed that women and children often killed in such illegal acts were frequently victims themselves, as criminality knows no border line.
KACRAN, also urged all parties – bandits, youths, and volunteers – to exercise extreme caution and avoid any actions that could lead to bloodshed, the killing of innocent people, or the destruction of property.
“We humbly advise both sides to report any issues or conflicts to law enforcement agencies, as Nigeria is not in a state of anarchy or lawlessness,” it said.
The association also stated that it believed that adherence to law and order by all parties will significantly assist law enforcement in maintaining peace across the region and the entire country.
Making commendation for leadership and security efforts, KACRAN commended the Executive Chairman of Riyom Local Government for his call on military and security operatives to maintain neutrality in enforcing law and order, recognizing him as a man of peace dedicated to uniting his people for development.
The association also lauded the commendable efforts of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang saying that, “Since assuming office, Governor Mutfwang has actively organized various security meetings, established crucial security committees, and provided logistical and financial support to security operatives. These efforts are aimed at restoring Plateau State’s reputation as a hub of peace and tourism for the benefit of its citizens and the nation.”
KACRAN also expressed deep appreciation for the Nigerian Military and other security operatives for their tireless work in maintaining peace and unity nationwide, urging them to continue their commendable service.
In conclusion, KACRAN proposed that dialogue, consultation, justice, fairness, and inclusivity in decision-making and governance are key to resolving the conflicts and crises in Plateau State.
