Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has alleged the killing of 14 cows and the rustling of 29 others by suspected “Berom militia” gangs in the Gero community of Gyel District, Jos South Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Monday by the state MACBAN chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the organisation said the incident occurred on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
Babayo said some Fulani herders were grazing their cattle peacefully without encroaching on any farm when the suspected militia members attacked and opened fire on them, killing some cows and stealing others after the herders fled for safety.
“According to reports received, armed attackers allegedly identified as Berom militia shot dead 14 cows and rustled 29 others belonging to innocent Fulani pastoralists.
“This latest incident represents yet another disturbing escalation of attacks against law-abiding herders who were peacefully carrying out their legitimate livelihood.
“It is deeply troubling that this attack comes barely two months after the tragic incidents in the same general area. On June 30, 2026, three innocent Fulani herders lost their lives in Gero, while on June 16, 2026, four others were reportedly killed in Nyongo, with their bodies yet to be recovered.
“The recurrence of such incidents demonstrates a worrying pattern of violence that continues to threaten peaceful coexistence and the security of pastoral communities in Plateau State.
“MACBAN expresses its deep sympathy to the affected cattle owners and the entire Fulani community. The destruction of livestock is not only an economic attack but also an assault on the livelihoods of families who depend entirely on cattle rearing for their survival.
“We call on the Plateau State Government, the Inspector-General of Police, Operation Safe Haven, the Department of State Services, and all other relevant security agencies to immediately investigate this incident, recover the rustled cattle, arrest and prosecute those responsible, and ensure that justice is served. Failure to hold perpetrators accountable only encourages further acts of violence and criminality.
“The continuous killing of cattle and attacks on innocent herders must not be allowed to become the new normal. Every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law, irrespective of ethnicity, occupation, or place of residence.
“MACBAN remains committed to peace, lawful coexistence, and dialogue. However, we urge the relevant authorities to provide adequate security for vulnerable pastoral communities and take proactive measures to prevent further attacks.
“The Association also appeals to all Fulani pastoralists to remain calm, law-abiding, and refrain from taking the law into their own hands while trusting the security agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibilities,” Babayo stated.
Plateau: MACBAN alleges killing of 14 cows, rustling 29 others