Fulani herders cut off farmer’s hand for allegedly refusing to help lift fallen cow in Plateau
A farmer, identified as Yakubu Bitrus, has suffered the loss of a hand following an alleged attack by a group of Fulani herdsmen in the Agingi community of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State. The incident reportedly occurred after Bitrus declined a request to assist in lifting a cow that had fallen into a ditch.
Bitrus shared his experience in a video posted to social media on Friday, detailing how the confrontation escalated after he refused to help the herders. He was returning from his farm with two women when a young herder approached them, asking for their assistance in getting the trapped cow back on its feet.
During his recounting of the event, Bitrus explained that he was the only male present and felt it was inappropriate to leave the two women unattended. He suggested that the herder call on other nearby farmers for help. According to Bitrus, the herder rejected this suggestion and insisted that they follow him immediately. The herder warned that if the cow died, there would be consequences.
The situation turned hostile when the herder began insulting Bitrus and subsequently chased him with a stick and a cutlass. Sensing danger, Bitrus decided against confrontation and fled with the women to avoid a potential altercation.
After regrouping with other individuals, Bitrus attempted to return to assist the herders, only to find that both the herders and the cow were gone. He and the others waited for about five minutes before returning to their respective farms, unaware that the herders had concealed themselves nearby.
Later that day, as Bitrus and his wife were walking home, the couple momentarily separated so she could gather firewood. Bitrus heard his wife scream and rushed to her aid, only to find her being assaulted by the attackers.
In an effort to protect his wife and himself, Bitrus picked up a piece of wood and tried to fend off the assailants. Initially, he engaged in a struggle with the herders using sticks. However, more herders emerged from the bushes, and during the ensuing confrontation, one of them used a machete, resulting in the severe injury to Bitrus’ hand.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between farmers and herders in the region, raising concerns over safety and security among local communities.