Kaduna LG chair dismisses MACBAN’s allegation, reaffirms peace drive

The Chairman of Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara, has dismissed allegations by the Miyetti Allah Cattle...

The Chairman of Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara, has dismissed allegations by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, accusing him of bias and obstruction of justice in the handling of the recent security incidents in Southern Kaduna.

MACBAN, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Abdulhamid Musa Albarka, had urged President Bola Tinubu to institute a judicial panel of inquiry into the killings in Southern Kaduna and overhaul the operations of security formations, particularly Operation Safe Haven, which oversees peacekeeping in the area.

The association also called on Governor Uba Sani to suspend Dogara, accusing him of promoting ethnic hostility and undermining peace efforts in the council.

But reacting in a statement on Tuesday, Dogara described the allegations as false, malicious, and capable of inciting tension, insisting that his administration remains fully committed to Governor Uba Sani’s peace, unity, and reconciliation agenda.

“Our focus as a council is to strengthen peaceful coexistence among all communities in Jema’a. We have worked closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, and youth groups to sustain the peace we’ve built,” Dogara said.

He commended Governor Sani’s leadership in uniting the state, saying, “We are committed to supporting his peace agenda. No amount of propaganda or blackmail will distract us from that responsibility.”

The council chairman noted that his administration had prioritised conflict prevention and community engagement since assuming office, resulting in a notable reduction in violent clashes.

“I have held several peace dialogues with MACBAN leadership in Jema’a on ways to prevent the recurrence of such ugly incidents. The council also visited affected families and convened peace meetings with stakeholders, including Fulani and other ethnic groups, where all parties resolved to live in peace,” he added.

The council boss described MACBAN’s statement as “unfortunate and inflammatory,” warning that such remarks could jeopardise the fragile peace in the area.

Dogara reaffirmed his commitment to justice, inclusiveness, and fairness in administering the local government, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.

He further stated that the council has been working closely with security agencies under Operation Safe Haven, local vigilantes, and traditional institutions to strengthen early warning and rapid response systems in rural communities.

“Our security meetings are open to all stakeholders. We’ve worked hard to rebuild trust between communities and ensure everyone feels protected,” he stressed.

Arewa PUNCH reports that Southern Kaduna – particularly Jema’a, Kaura, Sanga, Kauru, and Zangon Kataf LGAs – has witnessed recurring attacks and reprisals over the years. However, the situation has improved in recent times following Governor Sani’s sustained peace efforts and direct engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups.

Sani has repeatedly cautioned community leaders and organisations against making divisive or inciting statements, warning that such utterances could endanger the fragile peace in parts of Southern Kaduna.

“Peace in Kaduna State is non-negotiable,” the governor declared at a recent security summit in Kafanchan.

“We must guard our words and actions carefully because rebuilding trust among our people takes time and sincerity.”

Dogara, taking a cue from the governor’s peace efforts, pledged that his council would continue to align with the governor’s directive, stressing that development and security can only thrive when communities coexist peacefully.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).