The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has called on the Federal Government, Kogi State Government, and security agencies to address alleged cases of unlawful killings, torture, and ethnic profiling of its members in Kogi State.

According to a petition signed by Bello Aliyu Gotomo, MACBAN’s National Secretary General, the association accused a joint security task force of carrying out these violations under the directive of the Kogi State Governor. MACBAN described the operation as a deliberate attack on Fulani herders, demanding urgent accountability.

The group reported that on March 22, 2025, 147 Fulani herders were arrested at Opere Market in Kabba Local Government Area. They were allegedly detained at the Chari Megumeri Barracks in Lokoja without formal charges.

MACBAN stated that the detainees were subjected to harsh treatment, including starvation and torture. Twelve people reportedly died during detention, and their remains were handed over to their families for burial on April 8, 2025.

The petition also highlighted the disappearance of 13 individuals and alleged that one person remains held without communication in an undisclosed location.

The association demanded the prosecution of the officers involved, compensation for affected families, and protective measures for pastoralist communities nationwide. MACBAN also urged the government to address ethnic profiling and discriminatory practices.

MACBAN warned that if local authorities fail to act, they will seek justice through international mechanisms, including the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The association appealed to the National Human Rights Commission, Federal Government, and global organizations to address the crisis and ensure justice for the victims, stating that inaction could worsen insecurity in the region.