At least 10 people have been killed in a fresh wave of violence in Plateau State’s Riyom Local Government Area. The latest attack has also led to the rustling of several cattle, adding to the ongoing tensions between two local communities.
The violence, which has escalated in recent days, reportedly began as a result of disputes over farm destruction, cattle rustling, and attacks on livestock. Tensions between the Fulani and Berom communities in the area have been simmering for some time, and this recent outbreak of violence has reignited the conflict.
On May 12, 2025, the conflict escalated when suspected youths from the Berom community allegedly slaughtered and rustled cattle that had strayed into their farms in Dayan village, Riyom Local Government Area. In retaliation, Fulani herders launched an attack on Danchindo village on the evening of May 13, killing at least four people before fleeing as security forces arrived in the area.
The violence continued the following day, May 14, when at least 26 cows were killed and several others injured in Darwat community, reportedly in retaliation for the earlier killings of local residents. Later that day, a group of suspected Fulani militants attacked a remote settlement near Wereng Kam community, killing six more people before escaping.
Security forces quickly responded to the escalating situation. Officers from the Joint Security Task Force engaged with local community leaders to broker peace and issued warnings against further violent actions that could destabilize the fragile peace in the area. One individual was arrested in connection with the cattle rustling and slaughtering incidents, and 130 cows were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
The swift action of the security forces, led by Operation Safe Haven, helped prevent the assailants from completely destroying Wereng village. Troops also launched a mop-up operation to target the militants who had fled, and they continue to maintain a strong presence in the area to ensure order is restored.
Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the Commander of Operation Safe Haven and General Officer Commanding the 3 Division, visited the affected areas to meet with stakeholders and community leaders in a bid to ease tensions and encourage dialogue. He noted that while normalcy is gradually returning, the security forces are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
