Cattle traders in Kara Market, located in Bukuru town within the Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, have protested against the state government’s directive to vacate the market within two weeks. The ultimatum, issued by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) on Monday, is part of the government’s plan to build a stadium in the area.
The traders argue that relocating to the proposed new cattle market locations in Gero or Sabongida, suggested during former Governor David Jang’s administration, would endanger their lives due to the long-standing ethno-religious conflicts in the state. They emphasize that Kara Market has served as a hub of unity where people from various ethnic backgrounds conduct business together.
One of the traders highlighted past security incidents that have heightened their fears. He recalled the discovery by the Nigerian Army of a shallow grave containing the remains of the missing Maj. Gen. Idris Alkali (rtd), along with cattle vans, motorcycles, and other belongings of their members, near Dura Du. Additionally, he mentioned a tragic event at the Gero community graveyard where people attending burials were attacked, some killed, and corpses exhumed and mutilated.
Given these security concerns, the traders are not opposing the government’s decision to relocate the market outright but are appealing for a reconsideration. They urge the government to ensure their safety and promote the socio-economic well-being of citizens.
In the spirit of peace, unity, and development, the traders have appealed to the state government to reverse its decision and allow them to continue their business at the current location.
