Locals attempted to steal cattle – Nigerian military reveals reason for Mangu crisis
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has revealed the major cause of the ongoing crisis in the Mangu area of Plateau State.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, in a media briefing with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, said the crisis is rooted in an incident of cattle rustling last Monday in the community.
He explained that the Mangu crisis was caused by cattle rustling and the killing of a Wagungun man who was riding his motorbike when he suddenly collided with cattle on January 22, 2024.
He said an argument between the herders’ militias and the Wangagu man resulted in his death.
He stated that the situation worsened, leading to a breakdown of law and order in Mangu town and surrounding areas.
“We have also deployed several battlefield enablers to enhance intelligence and strike capability on these terrorists; thus, We are encouraging the warring factions to shield their swords.
“In neighbouring states to the FCT such as Niger State. Troops are conducting operations in; Gauraka, Apo Forest, Gyedna/Sabon Wusa and Garam in Tafa LGA of Niger State. Additionally, troops covered Numan and Basa in Akwanga and Nasarawa LGAs of Nasarawa State respectively.
“For the week under review, the Nigerian Army apprehended 94 and arrested 171. Troops also apprehended 43 oil thieves and freed 29 abducted captives. Troops in the SS denied stealing oil worth an estimated four hundred and eighty-five million, nine hundred and eighty-three thousand, one hundred and fifty naira”, he said.
Recall that the governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, declared a curfew two days ago amid the crisis in Mangu local government.
