Farmer Killed in Clash Over Grazing in Plateau, 15 Cattle Recovered
By Zagazola Makama
A farmer has been killed in an alleged dispute over grazing in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, sparking tension in the affected community.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 3:30 p.m. on July 20 in Larpia Community, where suspected herders allegedly attacked and killed the victim after he resisted attempts to graze cattle on his tomato farm.
Following a distress report, troops of Sector 8 of Operation Enduring Peace, deployed at Pushit, responded to the scene alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
Upon arrival, the security team discovered the farmer’s lifeless body. Preliminary findings indicated that the altercation stemmed from a dispute over grazing on the deceased’s farmland.
The killing reportedly triggered a reprisal response from youths in the community, who mobilised and pursued the suspected herders, forcing them to abandon 15 cattle before fleeing the area.
The victim’s remains were evacuated to the General Hospital in Pankshin, while the abandoned cattle have been taken into the custody of the Larpia Police Division.
Security agencies have commenced investigations into the incident as efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and prevent further escalation of tensions in the area.
