The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, has issued a stern warning to the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), urging them to take meaningful action against criminal elements operating under the guise of herders. He cautioned that continued inaction could result in the group being held accountable for the violence affecting communities in Benue State.
During a meeting with MACBAN officials, the traditional ruler stressed that excuses were no longer acceptable and called for proactive efforts from within the organization to address the issue.
“The real challenge is that we are dealing with both genuine herders and those who are criminals in disguise,” the Tor Tiv remarked. “It’s like seeing mechanics going about their work, but some madmen among them are dressed the same—how do you tell them apart? If you claim only a few are causing trouble, then it is your duty to remove those individuals from among you.”
He recalled the behavior of Fulani herders in the past, describing them as peaceful and respectful of local farmlands. “We remember herders who guided their cattle with sticks and took care not to let them destroy crops. That was the kind of herder we knew growing up.”
Referring to a prior gathering of northern traditional rulers, he criticized the notion that violence is a cultural norm that simply takes time to change. “Is it now part of the culture to kill and destroy? The nomadic lifestyle we knew never involved violence, land grabs, or sexual violence.”
He condemned the brutality and displacement inflicted by armed individuals posing as herders, declaring that such acts have no place in any society.
“No tradition that endorses killing, injury, or destruction should be allowed to continue. It must stop now,” he insisted.
The Tor Tiv emphasized that law-abiding herders are welcome in Benue, provided they act peacefully and comply with local laws. “If you come with your cattle and peaceful intentions, we will guide you to fertile grazing land. But if you come to cause harm, that behavior is foreign to us and cannot be accepted in our state.”
He concluded by urging MACBAN to take responsibility for the conduct of those within their ranks. “Stop pretending you don’t know the culprits. They speak like you, dress like you, and even carry weapons like you. If they behave like you and commit these acts, how can you claim they aren’t part of you?”
