Gunmen attacked the Tashek community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing 37 cows and injuring a herder, according to Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, Secretary of the Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN). The assailants stormed the area around 1:00 p.m., opening fire on grazing cattle in what Babayo described as an unprovoked and deliberate act aimed at achieving a hidden agenda.
Babayo promptly notified the sector commander of Operation Safe Haven in Riyom, who deployed troops to assess the situation. He also informed key security agencies, including the Commander of Operation Safe Haven, the GOC 3rd Division, the Commissioner of Police, and the State Director of Security Services (DSS), urging swift action to address the incident.
This attack follows a similar incident just a week prior in Tanjol community, also in Riyom LGA, where gunmen injured two herders and killed five cattle, highlighting a troubling pattern of violence against pastoralists in the region. MACBAN has condemned the attacks, calling for thorough investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further escalation.
The recurring violence in Plateau State, including a recent attack in Bassa LGA where 36 cows were killed and 42 poisoned, underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect lives, livestock, and livelihoods. Community leaders and security agencies have been urged to foster dialogue and address the root causes of these conflicts to restore peace in the region.
As tensions rise, MACBAN continues to advocate for peaceful coexistence while seeking justice for the losses suffered by herders. Nigerians are called to stand against such acts of violence and support efforts to ensure security and stability in Plateau State.
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