MACBAN alleges fresh Plateau cattle attacks in Riyom and Barkin Ladi, warning that poisoning and shooting of cows threatens peace, livelihoods, and food security.
The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has raised fresh concerns over the safety of herders and their livestock following reported incidents of cattle poisoning and shootings in parts of the state.
The association described the developments as troubling and capable of worsening the already fragile security situation in rural communities.
According to MACBAN, the latest incident occurred around Kwi village in Riyom Local Government Area, where eight cows were allegedly poisoned under unclear circumstances.
The animals were said to belong to two herders, Ya’u Yusuf and Yahaya Sadari, both from Fass community.
The association said the loss of the cattle has left the affected families in distress, as livestock remains their primary source of income and sustenance.
In a statement issued yesterday, the state chairman of MACBAN, Yusuf Babayo, said the association had received multiple reports pointing to what he described as coordinated actions against herders in Riyom and Barkin Ladi local government areas.
He warned that such incidents, if not urgently addressed, could fuel resentment and deepen mistrust among communities already grappling with insecurity.
Babayo stressed that Plateau cattle attacks have become a recurring concern that deserves serious attention from authorities.
The chairman also disclosed that a separate incident was recorded in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, where three cows belonging to one Shuaibu Ibrahim were reportedly shot dead.
The incident occurred around the Kuru Gadabiyu axis, close to Bicichi community.
He noted that the manner in which the animals were killed suggested a deliberate act rather than an accident, further heightening fears among herders operating in the area.
Babayo condemned the incidents, describing them as criminal acts that go beyond economic harm.
According to him, the targeted killing of cattle strikes at the heart of rural livelihoods and threatens food production in the state.
He argued that repeated Plateau cattle attacks could discourage pastoral activities and worsen food shortages if allowed to continue unchecked.
He further stated that livestock killings are not only illegal but also dangerous to peaceful coexistence among different groups.
Babayo explained that cattle rearing supports thousands of families directly and indirectly, adding that attacks on animals could easily spark retaliatory actions if not properly managed.
He urged all residents to resist violence and instead embrace dialogue as a means of resolving grievances.
MACBAN confirmed that the affected herders have formally reported the incidents to relevant security agencies.
These include the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and Operation Enduring Peace.
Reports were said to have been lodged at both the local government levels and the agencies’ headquarters in Jos, with the hope that investigations would be carried out promptly.
The association appealed to security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attacks, noting that accountability would help deter future occurrences.
Babayo emphasized that failure to act decisively could embolden perpetrators and further expose rural communities to violence.
He reiterated that addressing Plateau cattle attacks requires collaboration between security forces, community leaders, and local authorities.
Beyond immediate security intervention, MACBAN also called on the Plateau State Government to strengthen early warning mechanisms in rural areas.
The association suggested that improved intelligence gathering and community engagement could help prevent similar incidents.
Babayo noted that peacebuilding efforts must involve all stakeholders, including farmers and herders, to foster mutual understanding.
Community leaders in affected areas were also urged to discourage acts capable of inflaming tensions.
MACBAN stressed that collective punishment or silent approval of attacks only worsens insecurity.
According to the association, sustainable peace can only be achieved when the lives and property of all residents are respected, regardless of occupation or ethnic background.
The chairman warned that continued Plateau cattle attacks could undermine years of effort aimed at restoring calm in the state.
He expressed concern that repeated incidents may force herders to abandon certain areas entirely, thereby disrupting local economies and food supply chains.
Babayo insisted that protecting livestock is not just about safeguarding herders, but also about ensuring stability and economic survival for communities across Plateau State.
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