Plateau State Tensions Escalate as Gunmen Ambush, Kill Three Herdsmen
In a tragic incident that has heightened tensions in Plateau State, gunmen ambushed and killed three herdsmen along the Dorowa-Jong road in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The attack occurred on Thursday night, February 19, 2026, around 7:30 pm in the Jong community, marking another violent episode in the region's ongoing security challenges.
Details of the Deadly Ambush
According to Ibrahim Babayo, the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), the victims were returning home after attending Qur'an Tafsir (interpretation) in the Dorowa community when they were ambushed. Babayo addressed journalists in Jos on Friday, February 20, 2026, revealing disturbing details about the attack's brutality.
"The perpetrators, after shooting the victims, used sharp objects to cut off the head of one of them," Babayo stated. "It was a brutal attack that should be condemned by all and sundry. We strongly believe this unprovoked attack was carried out by members of the Berom community, who have been perpetrating violence against our members and cattle."
Babayo called on authorities to thoroughly investigate the deadly incident and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further violence.
Community Leaders Deny Involvement
In response to MACBAN's accusations, Solomon Mwantiri, National President of the Berom Youths Moulders Association, described the allegations as unwarranted and denied any involvement by the Berom community. Mwantiri stated that security forces, including soldiers and the Divisional Police Officer of Barkin Ladi, had already visited the scene of the incident.
"The security forces have all visited the scene of the incident," Mwantiri emphasized, absolving the Berom people of responsibility for the herdsmen's deaths. This denial highlights the complex inter-community tensions that often characterize such incidents in Plateau State.
Security Response and Investigation
Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, confirmed that officers were quickly mobilized to the scene after receiving information about the attack around 11 pm. Oteh vowed to track down the perpetrators and announced that an investigation into the incident has already begun.
The security forces' rapid response demonstrates the ongoing efforts to maintain peace in the region, though the persistent violence suggests deeper underlying issues that require comprehensive solutions.
Context of Recent Violence in Plateau State
This latest attack occurs against a backdrop of recurring violence in Plateau State and neighboring regions:
- In a separate incident, gunmen suspected to be herdsmen killed 13 people in Benue State's Mbaikyor market attack, where several market women were kidnapped and the market was set ablaze.
- Local government and security forces mobilized to restore calm following that devastating attack.
- Previously, gunmen attacked herdsmen in Barkin Ladi and Jos East local government areas, rustling approximately 168 cattle, according to MACBAN reports.
- The Berom Youth Moulders Association has denied any involvement in cattle rustling incidents in the mentioned areas.
These interconnected incidents illustrate the complex security landscape in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, where conflicts often involve multiple actors and historical grievances.
Broader Implications and Calls for Peace
The ambush and killing of the three herdsmen in Plateau State represents more than just another violent incident—it reflects deeper societal tensions that require urgent attention from both state and federal authorities. Community leaders from both sides have emphasized the need for thorough investigations and peaceful resolutions to prevent further escalation.
As security forces continue their investigation into this latest attack, residents of Plateau State remain hopeful that sustainable solutions can be found to address the root causes of these conflicts and bring lasting peace to the region.
