Several cattle allegedly fell ill from toxic orange consumption in Plateau region

A reported nine cows have perished after allegedly ingesting poisoned oranges discarded in a grazing area within the Rankum community of Riyom Local Government Area in Plateau State, with the incident involving at least nine fatalities.

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The incident is said to have occurred on Saturday, according to sources familiar with the area, and was subsequently confirmed by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, Plateau State chapter, on Sunday.

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In a statement issued to newsmen in Jos, MACBAN, through its Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, denounced the killing of the nine cows belonging to innocent herders, describing the act as senseless and unfortunate.

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The MACBAN statement specified that the incident took place around 4:00 p.m, while the affected herders were lawfully and peacefully grazing their cattle.

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The association emphasized that destroying the livelihoods of livestock not only constitutes an inhumane act but also has severe economic repercussions for vulnerable pastoral families.

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MACBAN has called upon security agencies to promptly investigate the incident, identify those responsible, apprehend them, and ensure they face justice.

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The association has also urged community leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders in the affected areas to exercise restraint in the face of this incident.

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Reiterating its commitment to peaceful dialogue and lawful engagement in addressing grievances, MACBAN appealed to the Plateau State Government and relevant authorities to adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and property and prevent similar incidents from recurring.

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The association underscored that peaceful coexistence remains the sole viable path forward for all communities within the state, promoting harmony and stability among its inhabitants.