Attacks: Plateau LG bans unauthorised herders’ settlements

The Qua'an-Pan Local Government Area in Plateau State has implemented a ban on unauthorized herder settlements and issued a stern warning against grazing cattle on cultivated farmlands. This measure aims to bolster security and foster peaceful coexistence among residents.

Council Chairman Dr. Christopher Manship announced the directive during a stakeholder meeting with traditional rulers and leaders of Miyetti Allah. He emphasized that the council will no longer permit herders migrating from other states or local government areas to settle without the knowledge and consent of host communities. This policy is designed to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the area under the guise of pastoral migration and to preserve the existing peace.

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In a bid to safeguard peace, security, and community cohesion, the Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council has banned the settlement of unauthorised Fulani individuals and groups migrating into the locality from other states or local government areas without the knowledge and consent of host communities, particularly the indigenous people and the leadership of Miyetti Allah.

Dr. Manship urged the herding community not to harbor individuals fleeing other locations after alleged criminal activities or acts of violence. Furthermore, any herder found grazing on farmlands will be held accountable, with pastoralists advised to restrict their activities to designated grazing reserves and fallow lands. The council stressed the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence between indigenous and Fulani communities within Qua'an-Pan.

Nda Miskagam Jerom Leklat, the Long Pan and Chairman of the Qua'an-Pan Local Government Traditional Council of Chiefs, commended the chairman's proactive approach. He called for intensified grassroots sensitization and urged community leaders to report any suspicious movements or settlements to the relevant authorities to sustain peace in the region. The traditional council pledged full collaboration with the LG chairman to enforce these measures.

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The council chairman declared that the council would no longer tolerate the influx and settlement of herders migrating into Qua’an-Pan from other states or local government areas without the knowledge and consent of host communities, particularly the indigenous people and the leadership of Miyetti Allah.