Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Bornet .k
A Fulani herder identified as Ja’afaru has reportedly been shot in a suspected ambush in Tanjol Community, Jol Ward, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, in an incident that has heightened concerns over renewed tension between farming and herding communities in the area.
The attack reportedly occurred at about 5:00 p.m. on Friday, 17 July 2026, as the victim and other herders were returning home after grazing their cattle. Community sources said the group was attacked by armed men who opened fire before fleeing the scene.
According to residents familiar with the incident, the attackers were suspected to be members of a Berom militia group, although security authorities have not officially confirmed the identity of those responsible. The allegation remains under investigation as security agencies work to establish the facts surrounding the attack.
Members of the Fulani community in Riyom confirmed that Ja’afaru sustained gunshot injuries during the incident. However, his current condition could not be independently verified at the time of reporting.
The latest attack comes less than 24 hours after another violent incident was reported in nearby Yarwai Community, Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, where a herder was allegedly attacked and eight cattle were reportedly shot dead.
The repeated incidents have raised fears of possible escalation in parts of Plateau State, where communities have experienced years of conflict involving disputes over land, grazing routes, criminal attacks and longstanding ethnic tensions.
Security sources said efforts were ongoing to verify details of the latest incident and identify those responsible. Troops and other security agencies have reportedly increased patrols across affected communities to prevent possible reprisals and maintain peace.
Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. Security agencies also urged community members to provide useful information that could support investigations and help bring perpetrators to justice.
Plateau State has remained one of the areas affected by recurring violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, with authorities repeatedly calling for dialogue, community cooperation and improved security measures to prevent further bloodshed.
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