The Plateau state government Thursday said it has ordered a thorough investigation into allegations of poisoning 78 cows around Tafi Gana Junction in Bassa Local government area of the state.
A statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the attention of government was drawn to an alleged poisoning of 36 cows belonging to one Mallam Samaila Nuhu on the 16th of April, 2025, at Tafi Gana Junction in Zanwar Ward of Bassa LGA.
The chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the area, Ya’u Idris, Wednesday, told Blueprint that 78 cows belonging to one of their members were poisoned, out of which 38 instantly died, while 42 were slaughtered, noticing that they were in critical condition.
“Poison had been placed on garden eggs, which were scattered around the grazing area and eaten by the cattle.
“We had about 78 cattle grazing in the area. Currently, 36 have been killed, and the remaining 42 are in critical condition.
“We have informed the GOC 3 Division, and he visited the scene. He urged us not to take the laws into our hands and promised to investigate those behind the incident and have them arrested,” he narrated.
The state government said while it is deeply concerned about the report, it had “directed the Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services and Fisheries to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the incident.
“In line with Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to justice, transparency, and peaceful coexistence among all citizens and residents of Plateau state, the Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services and Fisheries has been directed to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the incident,” it said.