Gunmen Kill 13 Cows in Night Attack on Herders in Plateau

Suspected gunmen attacked herders along Gero Road in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday night, killing thirteen cows and injuring twelve others during what witnesses described as a sudden and unprovoked assault.

Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria in Plateau State, confirmed the incident while speaking to reporters. He said the herders were peacefully grazing when the attackers struck.

Babayo condemned the violence, describing it as unnecessary and deeply troubling. He noted that security personnel attached to Operation Enduring Peace, Sector 6, were promptly informed and later visited the scene to assess the situation.

According to him, there are concerns that the attack may have been intended to provoke further unrest. He urged members of the association to remain calm and avoid any form of retaliation that could escalate tensions.

A survivor of the attack, Jabir Abdullahi, shared his account of the night. He said the assailants arrived on motorcycles and opened fire without warning.

According to Abdullahi:
• The gunmen began shooting immediately upon arrival
• Herders fled in different directions to save their lives
• Several cows were killed on the spot
• Others sustained severe injuries from gunshots

He stressed that the herders were engaged in their normal grazing routine and had not caused any dispute or confrontation before the attack.