The Fulani community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State has cried out over what it described as the wanton killing of herdsmen and their cows in the council, as well as other parts of the state by gunmen they claim to be local militia groups.
Secretary of the Fulani Community, Abdullahi Yusuf Ibrahim, who raised the alarm in a statement on Tuesday, said recent incidents of attacks, killings of herders, and their cows, as well as cattle rustling, have been on the increase, and such acts will no longer be tolerated.
In the statement, Ibrahim said between October and December 2025, over 10 herdsmen have been killed, including little children, while more than 204 cows were confirmed killed or stolen across Barkin Ladi, Jos South, Riyom, and Mangu LGAs, thereby raising fears of escalation into wider communal, ethnic, and religious conflict.
“Between October and December alone, Plateau State has experienced a dangerous rise in violence targeting herdsmen, destroying their livelihoods, especially through cattle rustling, poisoning, and killing over 10 of our people,” Ibrahim said.
He stated that both pastoralist and farming communities have suffered severe losses from unprovoked attacks affecting all sides.
“The violence is criminal in nature, not traditional disputes, and protecting offenders under tribal or religious cover threatens collective security. While security agencies are making efforts, lasting peace demands collective responsibility.”
Continuing, Ibrahim said: “We wish to bring to the attention of the security agencies, government authorities, and the general public an unfortunate incident that occurred on 15th December, 2025, around Jol Community, Jol Ward, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State by suspected Berom youth
“Three cows belonging to Mr. Auwal Sale were injured by gunshots while grazing in the area. The animals sustained serious injuries, causing distress and economic loss to their owner. The incident has heightened fear among livestock owners and residents in the community.
“We strongly condemn this act and call on the relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice. We also urge the authorities to take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence and to protect lives and property in the area.
“We appeal for calm among all residents and encourage peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and cooperation with security agencies as efforts are made to address this situation.
‘We will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities and provide updates as necessary.”
Ibrahim called for decisive action by security agencies, strong intervention by the Plateau State government, leadership from traditional rulers, and rejection of violence by youths and communities.
“Without urgent, united action, continued livestock attacks risk turning economic violence into widespread loss of human lives,” he added.
