Five Fulani Youths Killed in Fresh Attack in Barkin Ladi

Grief has enveloped families in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area following the killing of five Fulani youths in an attack on February 19 in Plateau State.

The victims were returning from Dorowan Babuje when they were ambushed at about 7:00 p.m. while passing through the Jong Fulani community. Three of those identified are Tahiru Muhammad, Jibrin Salisu, and Abdulmumin Isyak.

According to community sources, one of the victims was beheaded, while others were shot. Security personnel later recovered empty 7.62mm Special cartridges and a motorcycle at the scene.

Family members described the victims as young men involved in pastoral activities and community life. Relatives gathered overnight as news of the killings spread, with local leaders calling for calm while urging security agencies to ensure accountability.

Livelihoods Under Threat

Beyond the loss of lives, residents say the continued targeting of livestock is worsening hardship for pastoral families whose income depends largely on cattle rearing.

On February 11, six cows belonging to herders in Rwam Village, Mushere District of Bokkos LGA, were reportedly poisoned in Tulus and Rwam villages. Two died instantly, while four were later slaughtered after showing signs of poisoning.

In Tulus Village, two houses belonging to Kadiri Adamu and Hashimu Adamu were set ablaze in a separate incident. Residents said the destruction left affected families displaced.

In Riyom LGA, a cow belonging to Anas Likita in Luggere, Jol Ward, was seriously injured in another reported attack. Abdullahi Yusuf, leader of the Fulani community in Riyom, condemned the act and appealed for restraint, stating that such incidents increase tension and undermine peace efforts.

Earlier on February 2, one cow was shot dead at Weren Camp in Riyom LGA, while three others were reportedly poisoned in Kwi Village using substances concealed inside oranges placed along grazing routes.

Escalating Violence Since December

Community leaders note that the pattern of attacks intensified in December 2025.

On December 12, armed assailants attacked Nding Community in Fan District, Barkin Ladi LGA, rustling approximately 137 cattle. A day later, 34 cows were rustled in Kukukah Community, Jos East LGA, while nine cows reportedly died in Kwi Village after ingesting suspected poisoned substances.

On December 16, armed Fulani bandits attacked an illegal mining site in Tosho Community, Fan District, Barkin Ladi LGA. The incident resulted in 12 deaths, three abductions, and multiple injuries, triggering retaliatory violence.

Between December 18 and 19, attacks were reported in Dorong Village, where four children were killed, and in Gero Village, Jos South LGA, where livestock were also destroyed.

On December 27, five Fulani youths returning from Kara Cattle Market were ambushed along Bukuru Express Road near Angle D in Jos South LGA. They sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to the Jos University Teaching Hospital for treatment.

Residents across the affected local government areas say the repeated attacks are deepening fear and uncertainty. Many families now live with concerns over both personal safety and the security of their livelihoods.

Security agencies have reportedly deployed personnel to investigate recent incidents, but affected communities continue to await arrests and long-term measures to prevent further violence.