12 Killed in separate attacks in Plateau communities

At least twelve people have been killed in a series of violent attacks across Barkin Ladi and Riyom local government areas of Plateau State.

The first incident occurred last Friday in Jol community, Riyom LGA, where a farmer, Mr. Sunday Darian, was shot dead while riding a motorcycle. Two teenage herders, Muhammad Sani and Furuk Bilyaminu, were also killed on Saturday in the same area while grazing cattle.

On Sunday night, gunmen attacked a bar in Dorowa Babuje, Barkin Ladi LGA, killing nine people and injuring three others. Witnesses said the assailants opened fire indiscriminately, and the injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Residents and community groups have accused each other of carrying out the attacks. The Berom Youth Moulders Association confirmed that its members were targeted, while the Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) claimed the two teenage herders were ambushed by local farmers. Both sides, however, have denied direct involvement in all incidents.

Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, confirmed that security personnel have been deployed to the affected areas and investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators.

“The GOC is not pleased with the ongoing violence and will do everything possible to restore peace in Plateau State,” Captain Oteh said, warning criminals to stay away from the state.

These attacks highlight persistent tensions between farming and herding communities in Plateau State, despite ongoing peace initiatives.