The Plateau State Government has ordered an immediate investigation into reports that 36 cows were poisoned at Tafi Gana junction in Zanwar community, Bassa Local Government Area.
According to Ya’u Idris, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Bassa LGA, the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday while the cattle were grazing. He stated that the animals consumed what appeared to be toxic garden eggs deliberately scattered in the area.
Idris appealed for calm among Fulani herders, cautioning against reprisals and assuring that security agencies were addressing the matter. The Plateau State Police Command confirmed 33 affected cows, with authorities including the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations), DIG Bzigu Kwazhi, visiting the scene to assess the situation.
Police Spokesman Alfred Alabo said DIG Kwazhi and Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina met with the cattle owner in Maraban Dare community, urging restraint and promising justice.
State Commissioner for Information Joyce Ramnap acknowledged social media reports about the incident and emphasized Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s directive for a swift, transparent inquiry.
“The Ministry of Livestock Development has deployed veterinary experts and investigators to collect samples and determine the facts,” Ramnap stated. She reiterated the government’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and warned against inflammatory statements.
Bassa LGA Chairman Joshua Riti also condemned the act, calling for calm while investigations continue. The state government has stressed the importance of dialogue and lawful resolution of farmer-herder tensions.
No arrests have been announced as of press time.
