Plateau: MACBAN condemns killing of Operation Rainbow commander, warns against tagging Fulani as criminals

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), representing Plateau State, has strongly condemned the murder of Operation Rainbow deputy commander, CSP David Babale, who was killed by gunmen believed to be Fulani militias. In a statement released on Thursday, MACBAN's State Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, emphasized that the killing of the senior police officer signifies that the violence in the state cannot be ignored and must end.

The group also urged the government and security agencies to take immediate action to stop the cycle of violence in Plateau State.

MACBAN expressed deep sympathy for the Inspector General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, the deceased's family, and all those impacted by the tragedy. They also offered prayers for the injured. The organization reiterated that no community gains from bloodshed and that lasting peace can only be achieved through justice, dialogue, and respect for the rule of law.

However, MACBAN cautioned against hastily attributing all violent incidents in Plateau State to the Fulani community without credible evidence or the results of an official investigation. Such accusations can fuel tensions and hinder the efforts of security agencies to identify and punish actual criminals.

The organization explicitly warned against making accusations that indiscriminately blame the Fulani community for every security issue. They demanded that criminals be treated as individuals, irrespective of their ethnic or religious background. No community should be condemned without solid evidence. MACBAN called upon the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to carry out a comprehensive, impartial, and transparent investigation into the killings, ensuring that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted according to the law.

MACBAN remains dedicated to supporting genuine initiatives aimed at restoring peace, fostering peaceful coexistence, and encouraging its members to abide by the law. The group urged everyone to reject hate, misinformation, and collective blame, and instead work together towards restoring peace and security across Plateau State.