Jos, Plateau State – The Plateau State Government has launched an urgent investigation into the suspected poisoning of 36 cows at Tafi Gana Junction in Zanwar, a community within Bassa Local Government Area.
Ya’u Idris, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the area, reported that the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday while the cows were grazing. According to him, the animals consumed what seemed to be poisoned garden eggs found across the field.
He appealed to members of the Fulani community to remain peaceful and avoid any form of retaliation, noting that security agencies are already addressing the matter.
The Plateau State Police Command confirmed that 33 cows were affected. Police spokesperson Alfred Alabo said that the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations), Bzigu Kwazhi, accompanied by the State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, and other top officials, visited the Maraban Dare area to sympathize with the owner of the cattle.
Before visiting Maraban Dare, the police delegation also stopped at Zike community.
“The DIG expressed his condolences to the livestock owner and local residents, urging them not to seek revenge. He assured them that those behind the act would be brought to justice,” Alabo stated.
Joyce Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, also addressed the development, referring to reports on social media, especially from the GAFDAN Media Team, about the alleged poisoning of cattle belonging to Mallam Samaila Nuhu on April 16, 2025.
She urged residents to stay calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could heighten tensions.
“In keeping with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s dedication to justice, fairness, and peaceful coexistence, the Ministry of Livestock Development, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries has been instructed to begin a full investigation immediately,” Ramnap said.
She confirmed that veterinary experts, environmental officers, and field personnel had already been sent to the area to gather samples and determine the cause of the incident.
Ramnap emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to promote harmony, resolve grazing-related conflicts, and encourage responsible dialogue. She appealed to the public to avoid making inflammatory remarks and to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
Bassa LGA Chairman, Joshua Riti, also condemned the incident and emphasized the need for peaceful relations. He called on all sides to stay calm and cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
