Plateau MACBAN alleges killing of three herders, cow by ‘Berom Militias’

​Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has alleged that three herdsmen were attacked and shot to death in an ambush by a gang of “Berom Militias” in Tanjol Village of Riyom Local Government Area on Sunday, 19 July, 2026.

In a statement issued and signed on Sunday night by the Chairman of MACBAN in the state, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, two other herdsmen sustained severe injuries, while one cow was also killed in the attack.

Babayo, who said the attack was unprovoked, stated that it was meant to further stir conflicts in the state and goad Fulani herders into a reprisal attack and then turn around to blame them.

Babayo said initial reports revealed that the herders were peacefully grazing their cattle without trespassing on any farmland when they were attacked by the gang between about 2:30 and 3:00 p.m.

“The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, Plateau State Chapter, strongly condemns the killing of three young herders and the injury of two others during an incident that occurred around Tanjol Village of Riyom Local Government Area on Sunday, 19 July 2026,” the statement said.

Continuing, the MACBAN Chairman said:

“According to reports received by MACBAN, the victims were grazing their cattle when they were attacked at about 2:30–3:00 p.m. The incident claimed the lives of Abdurrazak Abdullahi (22 years), Husaini Idris (23 years), and Yusuf Tukur (19 years) while Ayuba Adam and Sadi Adamu were seriously injured.

“We also received reports that one cow was killed while another sustained gunshot injuries during the incident. MACBAN extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured.

“We are deeply concerned by the conflicting narratives that have emerged regarding this tragic incident. We reject any attempt to prejudge the outcome of investigations or to label the deceased without credible evidence. Every Nigerian deserves the presumption of innocence and a fair, impartial investigation.”

Babayo called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, Operation Enduring Peace, and other relevant security agencies, to immediately conduct a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation to establish the facts and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice in accordance with the law.

He also frowned at what he described as unguarded statements by individuals and groups, which are capable of escalating tensions, which could lead to further violence and killings.

“MACBAN is also concerned by public statements that appear to make definitive conclusions before the completion of official investigations. Such statements risk escalating tensions, inflaming emotions, and undermining public confidence in ongoing security efforts. 

“We urge all organisations, community leaders, and media platforms to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric while investigations are ongoing.

“The recurring cycle of violence in Plateau State requires justice, dialogue, and accountability from all sides. Peace cannot be achieved through accusations and counter-accusations but through respect for the rule of law and equal protection for every citizen, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

“MACBAN remains committed to peaceful coexistence and calls on all communities to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and refrain from acts of retaliation,” the statement added.