Fulani community alleges killing of 44 cows in Plateau community
Fulani Community Reports Attack, Cattle Loss in Plateau State
Riyom, Plateau State—The Fulani community in the Riyom Local Government Area has alleged that 44 of their cows were killed during an attack reportedly carried out by local militia groups.
In a statement released on Friday, Abdullahi Yusuf, Secretary of the Fulani community, detailed the incident that occurred on Wednesday, November 11. He claimed that militiamen targeted Shuaibu Woje, a resident of the Mahanga Community in Jol Ward, slaying 44 of his cattle and injuring several herders who were working alongside him.
Yusuf stated that the attackers corralled the cattle into a restricted area around Tanjol Community before commencing their assault.
“According to information received, suspected Berom militia members allegedly began shooting at the cattle at approximately 4:00 p.m. in an area known as Akawu, near Tanjol Community,” Yusuf said. “The incident was promptly reported to the Joint Task Force, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services. However, initial recovery efforts were unsuccessful.”
Following additional intervention on Thursday morning, some cattle were rescued with the assistance of personnel from the Mobile Police Station in Jol and members of Operation Enduring Peace stationed in Dakun, Yusuf noted.
Reported Impact of the Attack
The Fulani community has released a breakdown of the losses:
- Six cattle were reportedly shot dead.
- Three cattle were slaughtered.
- Eight cattle sustained injuries.
- Ten cattle remain missing.
- Seventeen cattle were successfully rescued unharmed.
This attack has raised significant concern regarding the safety of livestock and herders in the area, leading the Fulani community to call for immediate action from local authorities. They are urging:
- A comprehensive investigation into the attack by military and police authorities.
- Intensified efforts to locate and recover the remaining missing cattle.
- Arrest and prosecution of anyone involved in the violence against the cattle.
- Compensation for the losses incurred by the cattle owner.
- Enhanced security patrols in vulnerable communities to prevent further incidents.
- Equal protection for all residents, regardless of their ethnic or religious background.
- Regular updates on the investigation and recovery efforts from authorities.
- A call for calm among community members to avoid retaliatory actions and report suspicious activities to the proper authorities.
“This incident represents a serious economic loss to the owner and raises further concerns about the safety of livestock and herders in Riyom Local Government Area,” Yusuf added. He emphasized the importance of fairness and accountability in achieving lasting peace within the region.
