Renewed killings: Plateau Gov. bans night grazing, restricts cattle movement
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has announced a ban on night grazing across the state, following a series of violent attacks and killings in various communities.
The governor made the announcement during a statewide broadcast on Wednesday in Jos, addressing the escalating security challenges facing the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on April 2, gunmen launched coordinated attacks on Hurti, Josho, Daffo, and other communities within the Manguna District.
Similarly, on Sunday, armed assailants struck the Zike and Kimakpa communities in Kwall District, under the Iregwe Chiefdom of Bassa Local Government Area.
In both incidents, numerous lives were lost, while several homes and properties were destroyed.
As part of efforts to contain the crisis, the governor also imposed restrictions on the movement of cattle by vehicles across the state from 7:00 p.m. onwards.
He stated that the decision was aimed at addressing the growing security threats and restoring normalcy in affected areas.
“To restore calm and strengthen vigilance, I hereby announce that, effective Wednesday, April 16, night grazing of cattle is strictly prohibited,” the governor declared.
“Furthermore, the transportation of cattle by vehicle is banned after 7:00 p.m.
The use of motorcycles is also restricted from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. across the state until further notice,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, pledging continued support for security agencies operating in the state.
Emphasising that the killings were not merely a fallout of farmer-herder clashes, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his demonstrated commitment to restoring peace in Plateau.
He also announced plans to set up a fact-finding committee comprising credible and independent individuals to investigate the root causes of the violence and recommend sustainable solutions.
