Gunmen have reportedly killed Yakubu Ishaku, a herder, and approximately 18 cows in Nyarwai Village, situated within the Fan District of the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area in Plateau State.
According to accounts from the herding community, the attack transpired at approximately 1 PM on Wednesday, while the herders were tending to their cattle in the area.
MACBAN Condemns Attack, Calls for Investigation
Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), confirmed the tragic incident to journalists in Jos. While condemning the attack, the association's chairman described it as "one too many," lamenting that it represents yet another grievous loss of innocent life and a significant blow to livelihoods.
MACBAN asserted that such violent acts further imperil the peace and harmony that the citizens of the state earnestly desire. The group has issued a fervent appeal to security agencies, urging them to promptly investigate the attack, apprehend those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice in strict accordance with the law. They stressed that the prevailing cycle of violence must not persist without accountability.
Furthermore, MACBAN pressed the Plateau State Government to redouble its efforts in safeguarding the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens, irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds. The association reiterated its unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence and called upon members of the Fulani community to maintain calm, refrain from any acts of retaliation, and cooperate fully with security agencies during the ongoing investigations.
The Chairman urged members of the group to abide by the law and to never resort to self-help, confirming that the incident has been officially reported to the relevant security agencies. The association also extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Yakubu Ishaku and expressed profound sympathy to the owner of the cattle for their substantial loss, offering prayers that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal rest.
As of the time of reporting, Captain Polycarp Oteh, the spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, had not responded to inquiries from our correspondent.