Plateau Community Leader Questions Valuing Cows Over Human Lives After Farmers' Deaths

A prominent youth leader in Plateau State has voiced deep concern over what he described as security operatives valuing cattle more than people in the state. This sentiment emerged after three farmers tragically lost their lives due to an attack attributed to Fulani settlers in the region.

The community leader asserted that Fulani individuals have established themselves on their land without consent and have resorted to violence against the indigenous population. He further explained that the presence of these settlers has made it perilous for local farmers to access certain ancestral lands for their livelihoods, with venturing out in groups being the only way to avoid being killed.

He recounted that on a previous occasion, two other indigenes were killed, and despite reporting the incidents to security agencies, no action was taken. This inaction, he contrasted sharply with the swift response when a cow belonging to the Fulani community was killed just two weeks prior.

According to the leader, security agents convened a meeting and insisted that his community provide money to replace the cow, threatening repercussions if they failed to comply. He noted that his people had no alternative but to purchase a new cow.

He then posed a critical question: who would offer compensation for the lives lost within his community, especially when the Fulani community receives compensation for their deceased cattle?

The leader also revealed the immense pressure he faces from his own community members following each attack. He stated that he continuously implores them to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory violence, but warned that his ability to maintain this plea might diminish if they continue to be killed on their own land.