A violent incident occurred on Sunday evening in Kassa community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, resulting in the deaths of five herders. The victims, identified as Buhari Yusuf, Aminu Ahmad, Nasiru Abdullahi, Gambo Abubakar, and Muhammad Abdul Rahman, were buried on Monday in the Muslim Cemetery in Bokkos. According to reports, the herders were transporting cattle from Bokkos to Jos South in a J5 vehicle when gunmen opened fire, killing them and the cattle.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with the sector commander of Operation Enduring Peace in Bokkos, Lt. Cl. Luke Adejo, denouncing the attack and urging the herding community to remain calm and avoid retaliation. MACBAN state Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, also condemned the incident and called on security forces to investigate and take action against those responsible. The incident is part of a larger trend of violence in the region, with over 20 people killed in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Riyom LGAs within two days.
In response to the escalating violence, the Plateau State Government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu local government areas. The curfew, which took effect from Monday, September 21, 2026, restricts movements between 6pm and 6am until further notice. Security operatives have been directed to enforce the order, with the aim of maintaining public order and preventing a breakdown of law and order.
The curfew was announced by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, who stated that the decision was made to prevent further violence and protect citizens. The Commissioner emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the state. The imposition of the curfew has been seen as a necessary measure to restore calm and stability to the affected areas.
The incident has also raised concerns about the security situation in Plateau State, with many calling for increased measures to protect citizens and prevent further attacks. The state government has been urged to work with security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence. The herding community has been particularly affected by the violence, with many calling for greater protection and support.
The violence in Plateau State has resulted in significant damage to property, with many houses burned in the attacks. The government has been urged to provide support to those affected by the violence, including compensation for damaged property and assistance to families who have lost loved ones. The incident has also highlighted the need for greater dialogue and understanding between different communities in the state.
The Plateau State Government has assured citizens that it is committed to addressing the root causes of the violence and working towards a lasting solution. The government has urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies to restore peace and stability to the state. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to promote peace and understanding in Plateau State.
Key points
- The Plateau State Government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on affected areas to prevent further violence.
- Five herders were killed in the incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation.
- The government has been urged to work with security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence.
