At least five Fulani men have been killed after gunmen attacked the vehicle in which they were travelling in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, according to local sources.
The incident reportedly occurred around Kassa while the victims were travelling towards Jos South to attend a market.
According to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the vehicle came under attack near a security checkpoint along the route. The assailants reportedly opened fire, killing all five occupants.
The identities of the victims and the precise circumstances surrounding the attack were initially still being verified. (Zagazola Media Network)
However, the Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) later identified the deceased as Buhari Yusuf, Aminu Ahmad, Nasiru Abdullahi, Gambo Abubakar and Muhammad Abdul Rahman.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Ibrahim Babayo, MACBAN alleged that the men were attacked by individuals it described as Berom militias.
The association said the victims were travelling to a cattle market for business when they were ambushed.
MACBAN condemned the killings and called on the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and security agencies to investigate the incident and bring anyone found responsible to justice.
It also urged authorities to strengthen security around Kassa and other identified flashpoints in the area.
The association appealed to members of the Fulani community, particularly youths, to remain calm and avoid retaliatory attacks.
The latest killing comes amid renewed violence and reprisal attacks involving Fulani herders and other communities in parts of Plateau State, where longstanding tensions have repeatedly resulted in loss of lives. (TheCable)
