The Gan Allah Fulani Development Association, GAFDAN, has once again accused youth groups it described as “Berom Militia’ gangs of orchestrating attacks on Fulani herders, as well as killing and rustling their cattle in several communities in Plateau State especially in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Jos East Local Government Areas.
In a statement on Tuesday, GAFDAN stated that they have reported a series of attacks perpetrated by the purported ‘militia’ group on herders to security agencies but the reports have been swept under the carpet as the assailants are neither apprehended nor brought to justice.
In the statement, the Fulani group referenced a recent attack on a herder whom it said was ambushed by a militia gang in Riyom, where six of his cows were allegedly shot.
“The Fulani community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State strongly condemns the recent attack on innocent cattle belonging to one Usaini Abubakar of Fass community,” the group said.
“On the 5th of May, 2026, six cows belonging to the herder were reportedly shot by suspected Berom militias from Jol community in Jol Ward, Riyom LGA. As a result of this unprovoked attack, three cows died instantly, while three others sustained critical gunshot injuries.
“This incident occurred while the cattle were peacefully grazing, without any form of provocation. Such repeated acts of violence against law-abiding pastoralists and their means of livelihood are unacceptable and deeply concerning.
“The Fulani community expresses its serious concern over the continuous targeting of herders and their livestock in the area. These actions not only threaten peaceful coexistence but also undermine ongoing efforts to promote unity and stability in Riyom LGA and Plateau State at large,” it added.
GAFDAN also claimed another attack on two Fulani youths, who they said were waylaid and beaten and their motorcycles damaged by Berom youths
It alleged that two Fulani youths on bikes were innocently beaten and their bikes severely damaged by youths of Gada village in Jos East LGA of the state.
The group stated that despite the incident being reported to security agencies, the attackers were not arrested.
Concluding the statement, GAFDAN said:
“We, therefore, call on security agencies, particularly the Nigerian military and other relevant authorities, to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents of repeated attacks on our people by Berom Militias and ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
“They should also intensify measures to protect herders and their livestock from further attacks while we urge all communities in Riyom LGA to embrace peace, dialogue, and mutual respect, as violence will only deepen divisions and hinder progress.
“The Fulani community remains committed to peaceful coexistence and calls on all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace in the area.”
