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Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has petitioned Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Operation Enduring Peace, OPEP, over what it described as repeated incidents of attacks on herders and alleged poisoning in local communities especially in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas.
The petition, dated April 23, 2026, and signed by the state chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, stated that the association was compelled to write the petition due to a growing threat to the safety and livelihoods of Fulani herders in the communities.
The petition made available to DAILY POST on Monday titled “Urgent Complaint on Repeated Killing of Herders and Cattle,” MACBAN pointed to incidents which it said occurred between April 18, 20, 22, and 23, 2026, across different communities in Barkin Ladi, which it said suggested a troubling pattern of deliberate attacks on herders and their livestock.
The association said on April 18th, 10 cows were allegedly poisoned in Rakung Village while another cow was reportedly killed in the same village on April 20. It also claimed that nine cattle were poisoned at the Lokojora area on April 22, while an unspecified number was also poisoned along the Nding axis on April 22 and 23.
“These deliberate poisoning and killing of Fulani herders’ cattle have had economic implications for our members and have raised concerns about their broader impact on livelihoods, food security, and community relations,” the petition said.
Babayo regretted that despite the killing of their cattle and reports made to security agencies, no arrests had been made in connection with the reported incidents.
“We call on security agencies to investigate the matter, prevent further occurrences, and ensure those responsible are identified. We also appealed to the state government to consider providing support to the affected herders.
“While we urge a thorough investigation, we have appealed to our members to remain calm and law-abiding to mitigate tensions which could affect ongoing peace efforts in the state,” the petition concluded.
