No fewer than 32 cows have been reportedly died of poisoning around the Tafi Gana junction area of Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident happened on Wednesday in an open field along the Zawura-Jebbu Miango axis, between Dutsen Kura and Jebbu Miango, a region historically prone to ethno-farmer-herder tension.

Samaila Nuhu, the affected herder, told Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, that his animals began showing strange symptoms after grazing in the area, prompting suspicions of deliberate poisoning.

The Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), in Bassa LGA, Ya’u Idris, also confirmed the incident to Daily Trust.

The chairman said the incident occurred around 4:30pm when the cattle were grazing in the area, adding that poison had been placed on garden eggs, which were scattered around the grazing area and eaten by the cattle.

Idris further explained that they had reported the incident to all security agencies including the GOC 3 Division, DSD and police, adding the GOC had visited the scene of the incident.

“We have about 78 cattle grazing in the area. Currently, 36 have been killed, and the remaining 42 are in critical condition. It’s uncertain what will happen to them due to the poisoned garden eggs scattered around.

“We’ve informed the GOC 3 Division, and he visited the scene. He urged us not to take the law into our hands and promised to investigate those behind the incident and have them arrested,” the chairman narrated.

He, however, called on members of the Fulani community to remain calm and not take the law into their hands, hoping that the security forces are on top of the situation.

The poisoning of the cattle came barely two days after 52 people were killed and many others injured in Zikke village, in the same Bassa LGA. Many houses were razed by the perpetrators.

Members of the attacked community accused the herding community of being responsible for the killings on Monday, an accusation that was denied by the herders.

The spokesman of Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, did not respond to a message by our correspondent on the incident at press time.

Night grazing banned

Two days after attacks on Plateau villages, which led to loss of lives and destruction of property, Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Wednesday banned night grazing, transportation of cattle and movements of motorcycles beyond 7pm.

The ban is one of the measures taken by the state government to prevent further conflicts between herding and farming communities.

The governor, who announced the ban in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, said: “In the late hours of Sunday, April 13, the peace of Zikke village in Bassa LGA was shattered by a brutal attack that claimed the lives of innocent men, women and children.

“This comes while we still mourn the tragic loss of over 50 lives in Bokkos. These attacks are calculated, persistent and painful.

“In response to these attacks, the following measures take effect from Wednesday, April 16th: Night grazing is strictly prohibited. Transportation of cattle after 7pm is banned, and motorcycle movement is restricted from 7pm to 6am statewide.

“I call on traditional rulers and youth leaders to revive local vigilante patrols in partnership with security forces. We must be united in protecting our land, guided by justice and law. Let us remain calm, vigilant and united.”

Mr Isaac Aregbesola, a Senior Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), has announced the death of his wife, Mrs. Wumi Aregbesola (Nee Adebayo).

Aregbesola in a statement said his wife, 52, died on Friday, April 11, 2025

The editor described his late wife as a pillar of strength, support, and a source of inspiration to her family, friends, and colleagues.

“Her kind-hearted nature, compassion, and generosity touched the lives of countless individuals, making her an exceptional woman who will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

”Throughout her life, she demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to humanity service,” he said.

Describing her as a God-fearing woman, a great manager of resources, and a devoted wife, Aregbesola said his late wife’s life was a testament to humility, kindness, and enduring service.

He noted that Wumi was a seasoned accountant and entrepreneur who impacted positively on the lives of everyone who came across her.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has extended warm Easter greetings to Christians across the country, urging all Nigerians to embrace the values of love, peace, and selflessness as demonstrated by Jesus Christ.

In a statement by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Sen. George Akume, on behalf of the FEC, congratulated the Christian faithful on the commemoration of Easter, describing the season as a “solemn occasion” that reflects the sacrificial love of Christ for humanity.

According to the statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, Akume noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ remain a symbol of hope, salvation, and liberation, urging Christians to mirror these virtues in their daily lives.

“The life and teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly his message of love, forbearance, selflessness, and forgiveness, should serve as a guiding light to all Nigerians,” he said.

The SGF also seized the opportunity to call for prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

He urged citizens to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he described as a pathway to building a more prosperous and inclusive nation.

“Let this season of reflection and renewal inspire us to work together in unity and faith for the betterment of our country,” he added.

The FEC concluded its message by wishing all Christians a blessed Good Friday and a joyful Easter celebration.