Gunmen on Tuesday killed six cattle when they attacked herders in Jol community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, revealed this on Wednesday in Jos, saying the attack took place around 4:30 p.m. when the herders were grazing their cattle in the area.
Babayo said no herder was killed in what he called unprovoked attack, “it was an unprovoked attack. The herders were going about their lawful business when the gunmen opened fire on them,” he said.
The MACBAN leaders said “this act is a clear threat to the safety and livelihood of pastoralists in the area. We have the same right as every Nigerian to go about our lawful activities without fear.
“Within three weeks, we have lost over 60 cattle between Barkin Ladi and Riyom local Government Areas.
“This is a disturbing trend of violence against innocent herders who are only trying to earn a living. The continued intimidation of pastoralists must not be allowed to continue. After every attack, we report to security agencies for necessary action.”
He appealed to the Plateau State Government and security agencies to investigate the attacks, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served.
Babayo warned his members not to take the law into their own hands, adding that MACBAN remained committed to peaceful coexistence.
The spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, Captain Polycarp Oteh, said he would verify the incident and get back to our correspondent but had yet to do so as of press time.
MACBAN has always linked the attacks to some youth groups.
The spokesperson for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, said he was not aware of the attack but promised to make inquiries and respond accordingly.
