Teenage Herder killed in fresh Plateau attack

A 14-year-old herder, Aliyu Ismail, was reportedly killed on Thursday, around the Wereng community in the Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the state chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), confirmed the attack in Jos, while describing the incident as unprovoked. The latest attack comes amid heightened tension in parts of Plateau, following reports of attacks in Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Bokkos, where dozens of farmers and herders have reportedly been killed in separate incidents. The government had recently imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the affected LGA, but despite the decision, killings and attacks continued. ‎ Narrating further, the State MACBAN chairman said, “The deceased was peacefully rearing cattle when he was ambushed and killed at about 2:00 p.m. on 1 October 2026 around Wereng (Waran) Village in Riyom Local Government Area without any provocation. “This unfortunate incident is one too many. It is deeply disturbing that innocent herders, including minors, continue to lose their lives while carrying out their lawful means of livelihood. We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and the entire Fulani community,” he said. The chairman further called on the security agencies to investigate the crime, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure they are brought to justice. “We also urge the Plateau State Government and Operation Safe Haven to intensify efforts to protect all communities irrespective of ethnic or religious background and to ensure that no innocent person is targeted because of their identity. “MACBAN remains committed to peace, dialogue, and lawful coexistence with all communities in Plateau State. However, we cannot remain silent while innocent members of our community continue to be attacked and killed without justification. We appeal to all residents to refrain from reprisals and allow the security agencies to carry out their responsibilities,” he added. The spokesperson of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Polycarp Oteh, did not respond as of press time.