Violence has erupted in Plateau State, Nigeria, with a series of deadly attacks leaving multiple casualties in its wake. On Tuesday, four herders and nine cows were killed in two separate incidents in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas. The attacks also resulted in injuries to five other people, with the severity of their wounds varying.
These tragic events unfolded just hours after an earlier attack in the Kopmur community, Mushere District of Bokkos, which claimed the lives of seven family members. The escalating violence has raised concerns among local authorities and community leaders. Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the Plateau State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), provided details of the attacks, highlighting the brutality faced by herders. According to Babayo, “a gunman killed a herder and opened fire on grazing cattle, causing the death of nine animals.” This disturbing account underscores the dire situation on the ground.
The MACBAN chairman has informed the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and the state police command about the resurgence of violent attacks. This move is aimed at seeking intervention and support to quell the violence and ensure the safety of herders and community members. Plateau State has been grappling with intensified acts of violence against herders and clashes between herders and some community members, creating a volatile environment that requires urgent attention and resolution. The state’s history of such conflicts highlights the need for effective measures to prevent future incidents and promote peaceful coexistence among its diverse population. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for local and national authorities to work together to address the root causes of these violent clashes and find lasting solutions to restore peace and stability in the region.
