By Raymond Gukas, Jos
The Mwaghavul Development Association, (MDA) in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State has strongly called on her people to arise and defend themselves “with all that you have”.
The call came in the wake of killings and destruction.of properties in no fewer than six of its villages by suspected Fulani marauders in the early days of the week.
Addressing a press conference in Jos on Friday, the MDA leadership under its National President, Joseph Gwankat said the attacks were not ordinary bearing the peaceful disposition of the Mwaghavul man.
He said “we are calling on our people to arise and defend yourselves, your God-given land and properties with all that you have. We will not leave our land of heritage, this is the only place we can call our own; we have no any other place to run to.”
He disclosed that so far, the humanitarian situation is overwhelming and pathetic as people are either squatting with relatives, neighbours, in Churches and other available public places while food, toiletries, medication and places where they can rest their heads are not available.
“There is trauma and psychological depression. There is fear of even their safety where they are taking shelter as the threats spread across the local government.
“These are beyond the Mwaghavul Development Association and Mangu Local Government Council. We are therefore seeking for help from spirited individuals, corporate organizations, NGOs and the international communities to help ameliorate the suffering of our people are
going through.”
While reiterating that security of lives and properties are sole responsibility of the government, immediate steps mist be taken to end this “callous killing and destruction of properties in the land.”
In thier recommendations, they insist Government must take immediate step to facilitate the return of all persons that have become refugees in different IDP Camps by reconstructing their homes and providing security for them as well.
Otherwise, they won’t be able to go back and continue with their farming activities.
“The re-admittance and reintegration of the killer herdsmen into our land again if it will be at all should be facilitated by an NGO or any agency of Government and at the cost of Government.
“Government should take over full responsibility of educating children
below age 10 children who have lost both parents as a result of this conflict, while arrangements made for those SS3 students whose WAEC Exams were disrupted as a consequence of this conflict.
“The State Police has demonstrated low capacity and political will to secure minority tribes in Nigeria, hence we strongly recommend for state policing in all states and communities in Nigeria.
“Security agencies should build synergy with our community people to
secure their families. The integration of the Vigilantes and Hunters Association into the state Operation Rainbow may assist in information and proper protection of our people.
“Government must create a special court to dispense justice between conflicting communities which will always help in nipping some conflicts before they escalate.
“NEMA/SEMA must urgently mobilize resources immediately to address
the situation of the victims and the hosts of the victims. We wish to encourage our people to remain state fast, firm and
unshakeable in the defence of our land.”
