By Sunday, Matthew Taggah, Kaduna

The Chawai Development Association (CDA) National has faulted the recent statement by the Kaduna State Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) over alleged incidents in Chawai Chiefdom, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, describing the narrative as incomplete and capable of creating a false impression about the security situation in the area.

In a counter-statement issued on Monday, 3rd August 2026, and signed by its National President, Chief Bitrus T. Tanko; Secretary General, Comrade Umar Ibrahim; and Public Relations Officer, Comrade Bishara Yohana, CDA said it remained committed to peaceful coexistence and the rule of law but was compelled to clarify what it described as “inaccuracies and dangerous narratives” contained in MACBAN’s statement.

The association expressed concern that MACBAN’s statement allegedly failed to acknowledge the killing of 30 civilians in Naridon Village, Kamaru Ward of Chawai Chiefdom, on 27th July 2026, arguing that focusing only on alleged casualties involving herders and a reported military operation created “a false impression of who the victims are.”

CDA maintained that the Naridon incident was a major security concern that must be investigated, stressing that peace could only be achieved through truth, justice and equal protection for all citizens.

On the alleged killing of herders in Tayaga Village, Mayango District, on 2nd August 2026, the group said it was not aware of any officially reported incident, calling on MACBAN and relevant security agencies to provide verifiable evidence, including names of victims and official reports, to facilitate proper investigation.

The association also reacted to the alleged incident involving security operations in Kidundun Village on 30th July, urging that any grievances against security personnel should be addressed through appropriate legal channels rather than through unverified claims capable of escalating tensions.

On the issue of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) for pastoral settlements, CDA described the demand as inappropriate at a time when, according to the association, several indigenous communities in Naridon, Kamaru Ward and other areas were affected by displacement and destruction arising from attacks.

It called for any discussion on land ownership and settlement rights to be guided by existing laws, due process and consultations with host communities.

CDA also supported the call against stereotyping any ethnic or occupational group, noting that criminal acts should not be attributed to an entire community. However, it insisted that addressing violence requires acknowledging victims and ensuring justice.

The association called on the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to conduct an impartial investigation into all reported incidents in Chawai Chiefdom from July 27, 2026, to date, and make the findings public.

It further urged MACBAN to condemn the Naridon killings with the same emphasis used in condemning alleged attacks against herders, while calling on all stakeholders to avoid statements capable of worsening tensions.

CDA urged the government to prioritise security deployment to vulnerable communities in Kamaru Ward and other affected areas before discussions on land administration.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace and lawful engagement, but stressed that communities affected by repeated attacks, killings, displacement and destruction of property must receive adequate protection and attention from government authorities.