Plateau Government orders probe into poisoning of 36 cows in Bassa

April 18, 2025

The Plateau State Government has launched an investigation into the alleged poisoning of 36 cows in Zanwar, a community in the Bassa Local Government Area.

This incident is believed to be part of the longstanding conflict between farmers and cattle herders in the region.

According to Ya’u Idris, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Bassa, the cows ingested poisonous substances, likely garden eggs, while grazing around Tafi Gana junction. Idris urged the Fulani community to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions, assuring them that security agencies are handling the situation.

“The cows ingested what appeared to be poisonous garden eggs scattered across the grazing areas,” he stated.

The police spokesperson, Alfred Alabo, confirmed that 33 cows died and reported that the Deputy Inspector General of Police and the State Commissioner of Police visited the community.

During the visit, they sympathized with the cattle owner, Sama’ila Nuhu, and urged the community not to resort to self-help. Alabo said,

“The DIG sympathised with the affected cattle owner and the community, urging them not to resort to self-help, and assured that those responsible would be apprehended and prosecuted.”

The Plateau State Government has directed the Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries to conduct a thorough investigation. Government spokesperson Joyce Ramnap stated, “Our attention has been drawn to reports circulating on social media concerning the alleged poisoning of 36 cows belonging to one Mallam Samaila Nuhu.”

Ramnap added that a team of experts has been dispatched to collect samples and establish the facts surrounding the incident.

The Government has appealed for calm and urged stakeholders to avoid inflammatory statements.

Ramnap emphasized the Government’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable solutions to land use and grazing issues.

“The Government remains committed to promoting peaceful cohabitation, inclusive dialogue, and sustainable solutions to long-standing issues related to land use and grazing,” she said.

“We appeal to all stakeholders to avoid inflammatory statements and allow due process to take its course.”

This incident occurred a day after Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the area and apologized to victims of a recent armed bandits’ attack that killed over 50 people.

The region has experienced recurring tensions between farmers and herders, and the Government aims to address these issues through investigation and dialogue.