Herders on the aegis of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Wednesday decried the killing of 36 cattle and poisoning of 42 others along the Tafi Gana junction in Bassa local government area of Plateau state.
Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Bassa local government area of the state, Ya’u Idris, confirmed the story, Thursday.
He said the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. while the cattle were grazing in the area.
“Poison had been placed on garden eggs which were scattered around the grazing area and eaten by the cattle,” he said.
Idris further stated that the matter had been reported to all relevant security agencies, including the GOC 3 Division, the DSS, and the police.
“The GOC visited the scene of the incident to see for himself what had happened.
“We had about 78 cattle grazing in the area. Currently, 36 have been killed, and the remaining 42 are in critical condition. It is uncertain what will happen to them due to the poisoned garden eggs scattered around.
“We’ve informed the GOC 3 Division, and he has visited the scene. He urged us not to take the law into our hands and promised to investigate those behind the incident and have them arrested,” the chairman stated.
He appealed to members of the Fulani community to remain calm and not take laws into their hands and expressed hope that security agencies are on top of the situation.
The poisoning of the cattle came barely two days after 52 people were killed and many others injured in Zekki village, also in Bassa LGA. Several houses were also reportedly burnt by the attackers.
Members of the affected community accused the herding community of responsibility for Monday’s killings, an allegation denied by the herders.