Plateau lawmaker Chollom engages Fulani stakeholders to end killings

Member representing Barkin Ladi Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Dickson Chollom, has intensified efforts to end recurring killings in the area by engaging Fulani stakeholders on possible solutions to the protracted crisis.

At a meeting with Fulani leaders, Chollom urged them to openly identify the causes of the violence and suggest practical measures to prevent further bloodshed.

The meeting was attended by the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Barkin Ladi chapter, Alhaji Salleh Ibrahim, popularly known as Tambari; Ardo of Gashish, Idris Gidado; Ardo of Ropp, Abubakar Abdullahi; and religious leaders from various mosques.

Chollom said previous peace efforts had failed to produce the desired results, stressing that a lasting solution required sincerity and the commitment of all stakeholders.

He said, “It is unfortunate that previous efforts geared towards bringing peace to the local government have not yielded the desired results. We must be honest in our discussions and identify the causes of these continuous killings and how they can be curtailed.”

The lawmaker, who recently called for a change in strategy by governments at all levels following renewed violence in the area, said the crisis had resulted in deaths, destruction of property and displacement of residents from their ancestral homes.

He reaffirmed his commitment to representing all constituents regardless of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

Chollom said he would also engage Berom stakeholders and members of other communities affected by the insecurity to hear their grievances and seek common ground.

The Fulani stakeholders identified cattle rustling, indiscriminate killings, youth restiveness, inadequate parental guidance and perceived injustice as some of the factors contributing to the violence.

Tambari described the engagement as “a step in the right direction”, expressing optimism that it would produce positive results.

Ardo of Ropp, Abubakar Abdullahi, also pledged support for the peace initiative, while Yusuf Mohammed urged Fulani, Berom and other youth to embrace peace and engage in productive activities.