Recent violence in Plateau State, Nigeria, is increasingly being linked to land grabbing, as indigenous communities face forceful occupation and renaming by external groups. The Berom and Irigwe natives, along with other tribes, have been vocal about this issue for several years, urging the Federal Government to address the occupation of their lands by foreign herders.
Communities such as Rotchun, Dankum, Hywa, Fass, Davwak, and others have been attacked and renamed, forcing natives to integrate into safer areas as returning home becomes challenging. The situation has extended to Mangu and Bokkos, with numerous communities affected, leading to displacements and deaths.
Former Governor Jonah Jang and Senator Istifanus Gyang, among others, have consistently called for government intervention. The Beroms provided a list of communities attacked since 2001, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), often accused of involvement in the attacks, denies the allegations of land grabbing. However, indigenous leaders argue that the recurring violence is a deliberate attempt to dispossess them of their heritage.
Calls for a permanent solution, increased security, and a change in grazing policies are growing. The need for a national approach to the Plateau issue and addressing land grabbing is emphasized by leaders who believe that security, rebuilding efforts, and adopting technology in agriculture are crucial for long-term peace.
