A farmer identified as Yakubu Bitrus has reportedly lost one of his hands after he was allegedly attacked by herdsmen in Agingi community, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Bitrus recounted his ordeal in a video while receiving treatment at a hospital, explaining that the incident occurred after he declined a request to help rescue a cow that had fallen into a ditch.
According to his account, he was working on a farm with two women when a herder approached them and asked for assistance in lifting the trapped animal. Bitrus said he explained that he could not leave the women alone but suggested that the herder seek help from other farmers nearby.
He alleged that the situation became hostile after the suggestion was rejected, with the herder reportedly chasing him with a stick and cutlass.
Bitrus said he later returned to the area with other people to help rescue the cow, but the animal and the herders were no longer there.
He further alleged that while returning home with the women after completing their farm work, they were attacked. According to him, he intervened after seeing his wife being assaulted, leading to a confrontation that escalated when more attackers emerged.
Bitrus claimed that one of the attackers struck him with a machete, severing his hand, before the group fled into the bush.
He was subsequently taken to a hospital where he received medical treatment.
The account has emerged amid continuing concerns over attacks and farmer-herder tensions in parts of Plateau State.
