The Gan Allah Fulani Development Association (GAFDAN) in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State has distanced its members from the deadly assault on Mbwelle village in the Kwatas district, which left more than 20 residents dead, including eight members of a single family.
The group’s reaction follows mounting accusations in some quarters linking suspected Fulani militias to the attack, which has heightened tensions in the area.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Bokkos Chairman of GAFDAN, Saleh Adamu, rejected the allegations, insisting there was no proof implicating Fulani herders in the incident.
Adamu maintained that the association had consistently promoted peaceful coexistence among its members and neighbouring communities, stressing that they had repeatedly cautioned against involvement in violent conflicts.
He described the killings as “unfortunate and condemnable,” but questioned the basis for attributing the violence to Fulani groups without concrete evidence.
According to him, the community had enjoyed relative calm prior to the incident, making the attack both shocking and difficult to explain.
Adamu said, “We were taken aback by reports of the attack, especially as there had been no recent tensions to suggest such violence would occur.
“It is surprising that conclusions are being drawn so quickly, alleging Fulani involvement when there is no verified evidence to support such claims.
“Our members are not responsible for the attack in Mbwelle or any other part of Plateau State.”
He added that GAFDAN had been engaging stakeholders through meetings aimed at restoring and sustaining peace in the area, noting that progress had been made before the latest violence.
The group called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to identify those behind the killings and ensure they are brought to justice.