Herders in Plateau State have called for justice following the killing of two teenage cattle rearers in Riyom Local Council.

In a statement issued in Jos yesterday, the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Ibrahim Babayo, identified the victims as 18-year-old Muhammad Sani and 17-year-old Furuk Bilyaminu. He said they were attacked by gunmen on Saturday near Jol village while grazing cattle, and that three cattle were also killed.

The incident occurred less than 48 hours after three other herders were ambushed and killed along the Dorowa-Jong road in Barkin Ladi Local Council.

Babayo condemned the attack, alleging that the perpetrators were militants, and called on the state and federal governments to ensure the protection of herders and their livestock.

“This isn’t the first time our people have been targeted, and we seek protection and justice. We will not be provoked, but we demand action from the state and federal governments to protect our people and livestock,” he said.

He added that the association had reported the matter to security agencies, including the Department of State Services, the police and Operation Enduring Peace, for prompt action.