The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has submitted a petition to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Department of Security Service (DSS), and the Commander of Operation Enduring Peace regarding what it describes as the persistent killing and poisoning of cattle in villages within the Barikin Ladi Local Council of the state.
Petition Details
The petition, dated April 23, 2026, was signed by the state chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, and made available to journalists in Jos on Friday. Babayo stated that the petition was necessary due to criminal activities threatening the livelihood of herders in the area.
The petition, titled ‘Urgent Complaint on Repeated Killing of Cattle,’ alleges that “these incidents have occurred repeatedly within a very short period, specifically on the 18th, 20th, 22nd, and 23rd of April, 2026, in different communities within Barkin Ladi LGA, indicating a dangerous pattern of coordinated attacks without any visible intervention, arrest, or justice.”
Specific Incidents
According to the petition, on 18th April 2026, 10 cows were poisoned to death in Rakung village. On 20th April 2026, one cow was killed in the same Rakung village by the same group. On 22nd April 2026, nine cattle were poisoned to death behind the Lokojora area. On the same day, one cow was poisoned along the Nding axis; while on 23rd April 2026, another cow was again poisoned to death in the same axis.
Concerns Raised
Babayo stressed that the attacks, which are deliberately carried out against livestock, are not only acts of economic sabotage but also a direct threat to peaceful coexistence, food security, and the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens. The chairman claimed that despite the repeated attacks, no arrest or compensation has been made, urging security agencies to end the attacks. He also called on the state government to compensate the victims and investigate the incidents.
Call for Calm
While calling for a thorough investigation, the group urged its members to remain calm, emphasizing that “our members remain law-abiding and committed to peace. Continued silence or inaction in the face of these repeated provocations may undermine ongoing peace efforts and erode trust in constituted authorities.”
