A Fulani herder has been killed and several cattle shot dead during a fresh outbreak of violence in Makera area of Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State, in what security sources described as a retaliatory attack linked to ongoing communal tensions in the area.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 11:55 a.m. on April 26, when suspected attackers opened fire in the area, killing one herder, killing six cattle outright, and injuring about 20 others.
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE were immediately deployed to the scene following a distress call. On arrival, they recovered the body of the deceased herder and confirmed the destruction of livestock.
According to the sources, troops pursued fleeing suspects and intercepted five individuals heading towards Golhoss community. Two suspects were arrested while others escaped.
The remains of the deceased were handed over to representatives of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
Tension briefly escalated in the community following the arrests, as groups of women and youths reportedly blocked a road in an attempt to obstruct military movement. The situation was later brought under control through the intervention of local youth leaders and community stakeholders.
The arrested suspects are currently in military custody for investigation, while troops maintain presence in the area to restore order.
In a separate incident the same day, suspected militia reportedly attacked cattle in Gero community in Jos South LGA at about 4:00 p.m., killing one cow and injuring three others.
Security officials warned that the pattern of recurring attacks and reprisals in Riyom and surrounding areas continues to raise concerns about potential escalation, despite ongoing military deployments and stakeholder engagements aimed at restoring peace.
Authorities also noted that recent incidents are part of a broader cycle of violence involving attacks on both herders and farming communities in parts of Plateau State, with security forces reporting multiple arrests, recoveries of rustled cattle, and foiled attacks in recent days.
