Panic spread across Diyan village in Riyom District of Plateau State’s Riyom Local Government Area following an attack by suspected gunmen that left a herder dead and several cattle shot.
The Plateau State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, confirmed the development while speaking with journalists in Jos on Monday.
He disclosed that the victim, identified as Rabiu Aliyu Ya’u, was killed during the incident, which reportedly occurred around noon as the herders grazed their animals.
Babayo said the assailants struck without provocation, targeting the herders who were engaged in routine grazing activities.
He explained that no fewer than 21 cattle were hit by gunfire, with eight dying on the spot, while others suffered critical injuries.
Describing the incident as disturbing, he said, “The victims were not involved in any conflict. They were simply tending to their cattle when the attackers opened fire.”
He further noted, “These repeated attacks on pastoralists are worrisome. The loss of lives and livestock poses a serious danger to peaceful coexistence and livelihood in the area.”
The association called on relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation, bring those responsible to book, and strengthen measures to protect lives and property.
Babayo also urged members to remain peaceful and refrain from reprisals, maintaining that dialogue remains key to resolving lingering tensions, as security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the incident at the time of filing this report.
