MACBAN Alleges Attacks on Fulani Communities in Kaduna, Seeks Probe and Release of 258 Seized Cattle

By Femi Oyelola

The Kaduna State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has alleged that Fulani communities in Kauru Local Government Area were attacked during recent security operations and has called on the Kaduna State Government and military authorities to investigate the incidents and provide immediate relief to affected families.

In a statement signed by the State Chairman, Alhaji Abdulhamid Musa Albarka, and made available to journalists on Wednesday, the association said it received reports that personnel attached to Operation Enduring Peace carried out operations on July 27, 2026, in Kidundum Community, Chawai Chiefdom, and Worfi Community.

According to MACBAN, the operations allegedly resulted in the burning of Fulani homes, the displacement of families, and the seizure of a large number of cattle.

The association also cited another incident that allegedly occurred on August 2, 2026, in Badurun Sama, where Anas Idris was reportedly killed, Idris Yunusa sustained injuries, and several cattle were either killed or injured.

MACBAN described the incidents as disturbing and warned that they could worsen the humanitarian situation in pastoral communities already affected by insecurity.

Of particular concern, the association said, is the fate of 258 cattle allegedly seized during the July 27 operation. According to MACBAN, the livestock has been traced to personnel of Sector 7 Command of Operation Enduring Peace in Zango Kataf and is currently being held by the Ardo of Zango District, Alhaji Ayuba Haruna Yero, pending further directives.

“While we acknowledge that the cattle may have been placed in safe custody, we respectfully urge the relevant authorities to ensure that the verified owners are reunited with their livestock without unnecessary delay through a transparent and lawful process,” Albarka said.

The association disclosed that it has formally submitted a detailed report of the incidents to Governor Uba Sani, seeking urgent government intervention.

MACBAN is demanding a comprehensive investigation into the alleged attacks, the release of the seized cattle to their rightful owners, adequate compensation for victims, and the establishment of a high-level fact-finding committee.

The association further expressed concern over what it described as a pattern of innocent Fulani settlements being affected during security operations. It alleged that reports available to it indicate that homes belonging to law-abiding pastoralists were burned, leaving many families homeless and disrupting their livelihoods.

According to the association, if the allegations are confirmed, such actions would be inconsistent with the constitutional responsibilities of the Armed Forces.

“The Nigerian military is a national institution established to defend the sovereignty of Nigeria and protect all citizens without discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, or occupation,” the statement said.

While condemning the alleged incidents, MACBAN said it holds the Nigerian Armed Forces in high regard and appreciates the sacrifices of officers and soldiers engaged in the fight against terrorism and banditry.

The association stressed that its concerns are directed at individuals who may have abused their authority and not at the military institution as a whole.

“Any security personnel who turns his weapon or authority against innocent civilians because of their ethnic identity, or who participates in destroying civilian homes and livelihoods without lawful justification, acts contrary to the Constitution and the rules of engagement of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” Albarka stated. “Such conduct, if proven, undermines the honour and professionalism of the military.”

MACBAN therefore urged the military high command to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and ensure that any officer or soldier found culpable is held accountable in accordance with military regulations and Nigerian law.

It added that accountability is essential to maintaining public confidence in the Armed Forces.

The association also raised concerns over growing security challenges in Kamaru District, Chawai Chiefdom, which it linked to illegal mining activities. It recalled an earlier attack on Naridon Community by unidentified gunmen and called on the government to address criminal activities associated with illegal mining to prevent further violence and protect all communities.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace and the rule of law, MACBAN urged its members to remain calm, refrain from reprisals, and cooperate fully with government authorities and security agencies during the investigation.

“We respectfully call upon the Kaduna State Government, the military authorities, and all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly in the interest of justice, accountability, and lasting peace,” the statement concluded.

“Justice for the innocent, accountability for the guilty, and peace for every community remain the surest foundations for a secure and united Kaduna State.”