You cannot say you don’t know them—they speak like you, dress like you, and carry AK-47s like you. If they move like you and kill like you, how can you claim they are not your own? Expel criminal herders or be held accountable for Benue violence – Tor Tiv to MACBAN
The Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, has issued a firm warning to the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), urging them to urgently confront and expel criminal elements hiding within their ranks.
He emphasized that failure to act decisively would result in the association being held directly responsible for the escalating violence in Benue State.
Speaking during a crucial meeting with MACBAN representatives, the traditional ruler decried the ongoing attacks on Benue communities, many of which have been linked to armed herders. He challenged the group to take internal action and stop shielding perpetrators under the guise of legitimate herding.
“The problem is not just herders—it is criminal herders,” the Tor Tiv said pointedly.
“It’s like a scenario where mechanics are at work, and madmen infiltrate their ranks, yet all wear the same uniform. You cannot come and say a few bad elements are giving you a bad name, and yet you do nothing to remove them.”
He recalled the traditional Fulani herders of the past who were known for their peaceful disposition and respect for farmland boundaries.
“The herders we once knew in Benue moved with sticks, guiding their cattle carefully to avoid damage to crops. They were law-abiding and coexisted peacefully with farmers. That was the herder we grew up knowing.”
The Tor Tiv dismissed arguments that the violence is a cultural phenomenon that requires time to phase out. He cited discussions from a previous gathering of northern traditional rulers, where some had suggested that such transformations are gradual.
“Is killing, land grabbing, and rape now a part of culture? The nomadic lifestyle we knew never involved violence.
Any culture that embraces death and destruction has no place in a civilized society and must be discarded immediately.”
Expressing concern over the continued displacement, killings, and terror faced by Benue communities, the Tor Tiv made it clear that while peaceful and law-abiding herders are welcome, those who bring violence and disorder would not be tolerated.
“If you come with herds, we will help you find green pastures. But if you come to kill and destroy, that is not a culture we can ever accept in Benue State.”
He concluded by calling on MACBAN to take full responsibility for identifying and removing violent actors among their members, warning against feigned ignorance.
“You cannot say you don’t know them—they speak like you, dress like you, and carry AK-47s like you. If they move like you and kill like you, how can you claim they are not your own?
Take responsibility. Clean your ranks, or be prepared to share the blame for the bloodshed.”
The Tor Tiv’s remarks reflect growing frustration among traditional and community leaders over the persistent violence linked to armed herders and the perceived inaction by leadership within the pastoralist community. His message underscores the need for internal accountability and genuine peacebuilding if herder-farmer relations are to be repaired in the region.