One herder was reportedly killed and over 100 cattle slaughtered in a string of coordinated attacks in Jos South and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
The incidents, which occurred between Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, have heightened tensions in the region already plagued by recurring farmer-herder conflicts.
Confirming the attacks, the Plateau State Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, accused members of the Berom ethnic group of orchestrating the violence. However, the leadership of the Berom Youth Movement has denied the allegations, describing them as propaganda.
Babayo said the first attack took place on Tuesday, May 13, in Gero community of Jos South LGA, where suspected attackers stormed grazing fields, shot at herders, and killed about 70 cows. Three herders sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at separate medical facilities in Jos, including the Military Hospital in Rukuba Barracks.
“They butchered some of the cattle and carted away the meat. Troops from Operation Safe Haven intervened and arrested three suspects in possession of the meat,”;; Babayo said.
The second attack occurred the following day, Wednesday, May 14, in Darwat community of Riyom LGA. Over 40 cows were reportedly shot and butchered.
“There was no provocation. It was a coordinated and unprovoked attack. We no longer feel safe,”;; Babayo stated.
He further revealed that the incidents were part of a series of recent attacks targeting Fulani herders. On Monday, May 12, one herder was declared missing and 41 cattle were rustled in Bisichi community.
“These killings are happening almost daily, seemingly to provoke us. We call on the government and the international community to take note and intervene,”;; he said.
MACBAN has appealed to its members to remain calm and avoid retaliation, while urging security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
As of press time, the Plateau State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the attacks.
