The Fulani community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State has raised serious concerns over rising attacks on herders and their livestock.
The group warned that continued killings could deepen insecurity and push the state toward a wider crisis if urgent action is not taken.
Leaders of the community said armed attacks targeting herdsmen and cattle have increased across several local government areas.
They accused suspected local militia groups of carrying out shootings, cattle rustling, and destruction of livelihoods, creating fear among pastoral families.
The alarm was raised by the Secretary of the Fulani Community, Abdullahi Yusuf Ibrahim, in a statement released on Tuesday.
He said the situation has worsened in recent months and described the pattern of violence as disturbing and dangerous.
According to him, between October and December 2025, more than 10 herdsmen, including children, were killed in different attacks.
He added that over 204 cows were either killed or stolen in Barkin Ladi, Jos South, Riyom, and Mangu local government areas during the same period.
The losses, he said, have heightened tension and raised concerns about possible escalation into ethnic and religious conflict.
“Between October and December alone, Plateau State has experienced a dangerous rise in violence targeting herdsmen, destroying their livelihoods, especially through cattle rustling, poisoning, and killing over 10 of our people,” Ibrahim said.
He noted that the violence has affected both pastoralists and farmers, insisting that innocent people on all sides have suffered losses. He stressed that the attacks are criminal acts and not traditional disputes.
“The violence is criminal in nature, not traditional disputes, and protecting offenders under tribal or religious cover threatens collective security. While security agencies are making efforts, lasting peace demands collective responsibility.”
Ibrahim also reported a fresh incident that occurred on December 15, 2025, in Jol Community, Jol Ward of Riyom Local Government Area.
He said suspected Berom youths allegedly shot three cows belonging to Mr. Auwal Sale while the animals were grazing.
“Three cows belonging to Mr. Auwal Sale were injured by gunshots while grazing in the area. The animals sustained serious injuries, causing distress and economic loss to their owner. The incident has heightened fear among livestock owners and residents in the community.”
The Fulani community condemned the attack and demanded immediate investigation by security agencies. They called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible and urged authorities to take preventive steps to protect lives and property.
“We strongly condemn this act and call on the relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice. We also urge the authorities to take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence and to protect lives and property in the area.”
The group appealed for calm among residents and encouraged dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation with security agencies as efforts continue to restore peace.
“We appeal for calm among all residents and encourage peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and cooperation with security agencies as efforts are made to address this situation.
‘We will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities and provide updates as necessary.”
Ibrahim further called on security agencies to act decisively, urged the Plateau State government to intervene strongly, and appealed to traditional rulers to show leadership. He also warned youths and communities against resorting to violence.
“Without urgent, united action, continued livestock attacks risk turning economic violence into widespread loss of human lives,” he added.
