Two herders, cattle killed in Plateau attack

Two herders and many cattle were reportedly killed on Wednesday night around Tafawa community, Riyom Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. State chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, confirmed the incident to newsmen in Jos on Thursday. Narrating the incident, the state MACBAN chairman said the gunmen attacked the victims and their at home, killing them and fled the area. “We received this disturbing report with deep sorrow and serious concern. The alleged killing of these two innocent young men is another painful reminder of the persistent insecurity and violence confronting Fulani communities in Plateau State. “We consider every human life precious, irrespective of ethnic, religious or cultural background. No individual or group has the right to take the life of another person under any circumstances outside the due process of law. “MACBAN Plateau State Chapter is particularly concerned about the continued attacks and loss of lives involving Fulani communities. We cannot continue to witness the killing of innocent citizens without demanding justice, accountability and adequate protection for affected communities,” the chairman added. The chairman condemned the incident and called on security agencies to take measures to prevent further occurrence. “We call on the GOC, 3 Division Nigerian Army, and the Commander, Operation Enduring Peace, to immediately investigate this incident and ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice. “We demand adequate security protection for the Tafawa Fulani Community and other vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks and loss of innocent lives. We urge the relevant security agencies to ensure that this incident is not swept under the carpet or treated as another ordinary occurrence. “Enough of the killings of innocent citizens. Justice must be served, and the lives and property of every community in Plateau State must be protected,” he added. When contacted, the spokesperson of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Polycap Oteh, didn’t respond to inquiry as of press time.