Gunmen allegedly attacked herders in Diyan village, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing one person and shooting 21 cattle. The incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, 2026, around 12:00 noon while the cattle were grazing.
Victim Identified
Speaking to journalists in Jos on Monday, April 27, 2026, the State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, identified the deceased as Rabiu Aliyu Ya’u. He described the attack as unprovoked, noting that the herders were grazing peacefully. One herder managed to escape the attack.
Details of the Attack
“It is an unfortunate and unprovoked attack. The herders were going about their normal business peacefully when the perpetrators attacked them,” Babayo said. “They shot 21 cattle. Eight of them died instantly while the remaining ones were critically injured and cannot survive. This act represents a grave violation of human rights and a serious threat to peaceful coexistence in the area. We have the right like any other citizen of Nigeria to go about our lawful activities.”
He added that the attack reflects a troubling pattern of violence against innocent pastoralists who are only engaged in their lawful means of livelihood. “The continued loss of lives and destruction of property is deeply concerning and must not be allowed to persist,” he stated.
Call for Justice
Babayo called on the state government and security agencies to fulfill their constitutional duty of protecting lives and property. He urged them to investigate the attack, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure justice. The chairman appealed for calm and asked members to remain law-abiding and avoid taking the law into their hands.
“MACBAN remains committed to dialogue and peaceful coexistence as the only path to lasting peace,” he added.
Denials from Berom Youth
MACBAN has repeatedly accused Berom youths of being responsible for the attacks. However, the National President of Berom Youth Molders Association, Barrister Solomon Dalyop, has consistently denied the allegations, insisting that its members have no hand in the attack.
