At least eight people have been reported killed in Werreng community, after 40 cattles were allegedly killed in Darwat village Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau state, Wednesday night.
A local source who pleaded anonymity, said the killing of the eight people was done by gunmen in the night.
“We heard gunshots, in the night, eight people died and other people were injured,” he said.
Blueprint correspondent report that the state chapter chairman of Miyyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, had decried the killing of 40 cattle by unidentified gunmen in the Darwat community of Riyom LGA.
“On May 14, 2025, Berom youths in Darwat came in large numbers and began shooting at cattle belonging to our members. They killed over 40 cows, butchered some, and made away with the meat.
“There was no provocation-just like that, they began firing at the animals. It was a coordinated attack. We no longer feel safe. I have informed the GOC 3 Division and the State Director of Security about the situation,” he said.
However, the President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Dalyop Solomon, denied any involvement, saying the accusations were baseless propaganda aimed at achieving hidden objectives.
“The tactic used by the Fulani is to spread propaganda and falsehood to portray themselves as victims,” he said.
The Executive chairman of Riyom LGC, Hon. Bature Sati Shuwa, did not respond to phone calls and text messages, at press time.
Moreover, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian and Commander Operation Safe Haven (OPHS), Major General Folusho Oyinlola,has expressed concerns over the prevailing acts of farm destruction and cattle rustling in parts of Riyom LGA.
He said in signed statement by his media and information officer, Major Samson Zhakom, soon after a stakeholders meeting in Riyom that, “activities contribute to the triggers of crisis and should be rightly condemned to foster mutual understanding and respect between herders and farmers.”
The statement was however, silent about the reported killing of eight people and the 40 cattle.