The escalating violence targeting leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has sparked alarm and calls for government intervention. Baba Ngelzarma, the National President of MACBAN, expressed deep concern over the targeted killings, emphasizing the urgent need for protection for the association’s members. The recent assassination of Alhaji Amadu Surajo, the acting Chairman of MACBAN in Katsina State, highlights the growing threat faced by the association’s leadership. Surajo’s murder follows a disturbing pattern of violence against MACBAN officials, including the kidnapping of his predecessor just three months prior, whose fate remains unknown. Ngelzarma pointed to similar incidents targeting leaders in Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa states, underscoring the widespread nature of the threat. He appealed to both federal and state governments to take immediate action to ensure the safety and security of MACBAN members across the country.
The attack on Surajo took place late Saturday night and extended into the early hours of Sunday in Mai Rana village, Kusada Local Government Area of Katsina State. Suspected bandits stormed the village, killing Surajo and three others, while also injuring several individuals. In addition to the fatalities and injuries, the bandits kidnapped two of Surajo’s wives and a daughter, an undergraduate student at a public university. While one of the wives was subsequently released, the fate of the other wife and daughter remains uncertain. This brutal attack not only underscores the vulnerability of MACBAN leaders but also highlights the broader security challenges faced by communities in the region. The incident has left the community in fear and mourning, raising questions about the motives behind the violence and the effectiveness of security measures in the area.
Surajo’s appointment as acting Chairman was a consequence of the still-unresolved disappearance of Munnir Lamido, the National Vice President of MACBAN and the previous Katsina State Chairman. Lamido vanished under mysterious circumstances in June 2024 after leaving his Katsina residence for Kaduna State. He contacted his family from Zaria, stating he had stopped for a meal, but subsequent attempts to reach him proved futile. His vehicle and two phones were later discovered near Maraban Jos, on the outskirts of Kaduna town. Security operatives declared him missing days later, and his whereabouts remain unknown, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the circumstances of his disappearance. The subsequent killing of Surajo, who stepped in to fill Lamido’s position, raises concerns about a potential connection between the two incidents and fuels speculation about the motives behind the targeting of MACBAN leaders.
The targeted attacks on MACBAN leaders in Katsina State, along with similar incidents in other states, paint a grim picture of the security challenges facing the association and its members. The vulnerability of those in leadership positions is particularly concerning, as it suggests a deliberate and systematic effort to destabilize the organization. The fact that these attacks have occurred in different states indicates a wider network of perpetrators and raises questions about the possible existence of a coordinated campaign against MACBAN. This situation demands a thorough investigation by security agencies to uncover the motives behind the violence and bring those responsible to justice. Furthermore, it necessitates proactive measures from the government to provide adequate security and protection for MACBAN members, especially those holding leadership positions.
The attack in Kusada Local Government Area, an area not previously known for high levels of insecurity, has raised concerns about the expanding reach of banditry and other forms of violence in Katsina State. While the motives behind the attack remain unclear, the incident has prompted speculation about whether it was a targeted act of terrorism or stemmed from other motives beyond simple banditry. The kidnapping of Surajo’s family members, along with the killings, suggests a more complex situation than opportunistic banditry. It is crucial for security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, explore all possible motives, and identify the perpetrators to prevent further acts of violence and restore a sense of security in the community.
Following the attack, security operatives have been deployed to Mai Rana village to restore order and initiate an investigation into the incident. The remains of Surajo and the other victims were buried on Sunday morning in accordance with Islamic rites, while the injured are receiving medical treatment. The Katsina State Police Command has yet to release an official statement on the incident. The lack of immediate information from the police highlights the challenges in obtaining timely and accurate information in such situations. It is crucial for security agencies to improve communication and information sharing to ensure that the public is kept informed about the progress of investigations and the measures being taken to address the security concerns. A comprehensive and transparent investigation is essential not only to bring the perpetrators to justice but also to address the underlying issues contributing to the violence and to prevent future incidents.
