At least five Fulani men have reportedly been killed after suspected Berom militias attacked their vehicle in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication covering the Lake Chad region, the victims were travelling to a market in Jos South when their vehicle came under attack near a security checkpoint.
Makama said the attackers reportedly opened fire on the vehicle, killing all five occupants.
The incident occurred amid renewed tensions and attacks involving Fulani herders and other communities in parts of Plateau State.
MACBAN calls for investigation
The Plateau chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has condemned the killings and called for an investigation.
In a statement signed by Ibrahim Babayo, the association’s chairman in Plateau, MACBAN said the victims were attacked around Kassa in Barkin Ladi LGA by individuals it described as Berom militias.
According to the association, the men were travelling to a cattle market for business when they were ambushed.
MACBAN identified the deceased as Buhari Yusuf, Aminu Ahmad, Nasiru Abdullahi, Gambo Abubakar and Muhammad Abdul Rahman.
The association said the Kassa axis had experienced similar attacks targeting Fulani herders and cattle traders in the past.
It urged the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and security agencies to investigate the latest incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
MACBAN also called for stronger security around Kassa and other identified flashpoints to prevent further attacks.
The association appealed to members of the Fulani community, particularly youths, to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory attacks.
“The continued killing of innocent citizens is unacceptable and poses a serious threat to peace, security, and harmonious coexistence in Plateau State,” the association said.
The latest incident comes amid security operations in parts of Plateau following recurring attacks and reprisal violence involving communities and herders.
In February, at least five Fulani youths were reportedly ambushed and killed by suspected Berom militias while returning from Dorowan Babuje in Barkin Ladi LGA.
One of the victims was reportedly beheaded, while the others were allegedly shot dead.