Fulani Group Asks Mutfwang To Withdraw Shoot-On-Sight Order

A Fulani group under the auspices of the Concerned Amalgamated Fulani Association has warned Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to withdraw the recent shoot-on-sight order issued against anyone found destroying farmlands in Plateau State.

Mutfwang had issued the directive during a condolence visit to Barkin Ladi Local Government Area last week following renewed violence in the state that reportedly claimed over 50 lives within the past month.

While some residents and stakeholders applauded the governor’s directive as a decisive step toward curbing attacks and killings allegedly linked to armed groups, the Fulani association described the order as one-sided and targeted against Fulani communities.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the group’s coordinator, Modibo Sule, the association warned that the directive could worsen tensions and trigger further reprisals.

“His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State last week gave security agencies a shoot-on-sight order against anyone caught destroying farmlands in the state,” the statement read.

“The order, according to the Governor, is to checkmate the lingering attacks and violence in the state, but what we will remind the Governor is that the order seems to be one-sided, partisan, and seemingly aimed at Fulani people and, in the long run, will be counterproductive.”

The group alleged that Fulani communities in the state had also suffered attacks, cattle rustling and destruction of grazing areas.

According to the association, the directive failed to address what it described as parallel grievances affecting herders, including killings, livestock theft and poisoning of grazing fields and water sources.

“It gives limited public emphasis to parallel grievances, including killings of herders, cattle rustling, poisoning of grazing fields and water sources, and destruction of livestock. This selective focus risks deepening mistrust,” the statement added.

The group further argued that insecurity in the state thrives on cycles of reprisals fuelled by perceived bias and selective enforcement of justice.

“Every criminal act, whether farm destruction, herder killings, livestock rustling, or attacks on communities, must be pursued with the same vigour regardless of the perpetrator’s identity,” Sule stated.

The association called on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to ensure fairness and impartiality in addressing insecurity, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through equal protection of farmers and herders alike.