The Mwaghavul ethnic group in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State has expressed deep concern over ongoing attacks by suspected herdsmen, which have resulted in the deaths of more than 600 individuals over the past two years.
Kyesmang Yusuf, National President of the Mwaghavul Youth Movement, disclosed the figures during a statement on Friday, noting that the attacks have also displaced over 65,000 people and destroyed 6,111 homes across affected communities.
The Mwaghavul communities, particularly in Mangu, have been among the hardest hit by violent incidents recently reported in Plateau State.
Other local government areas such as Bokkos and Barkin Ladi have also experienced similar violence, with reports of killings and destruction of property.
Yusuf described the attacks as unprovoked and accused armed herdsmen of targeting Mwaghavul villagers, both on farmlands and in residential areas.
He added that over 30 villages have been sacked out of 103 affected locations.
“These assaults have shown no sign of slowing down,” Yusuf said.
“The perpetrators have demonstrated no remorse and continue to endanger the lives of innocent civilians.”
He condemned the violence, characterizing it as a form of coordinated genocide against the Mwaghavul people, which he said began on April 13, 2023.
Despite the region’s history of peaceful coexistence, Yusuf said the escalation of violence had undermined traditional mechanisms for resolving conflicts.
“While conflict is a part of human society, it must be addressed through established legal and traditional systems,” he said.
“Unfortunately, those attacking us have chosen violence, a path that has never offered lasting solutions anywhere in the world.”
The group also raised alarm over intelligence reports suggesting possible future attacks, linking them to recent inflammatory statements allegedly made by some Fulani individuals.
Calling for urgent government intervention, the Mwaghavul Youth Movement demanded increased security presence, thorough investigations, and the prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
They also urged the Nigerian Army to look into recent reports of crop destruction by herdsmen in Mangu and other parts of the LGA.