dead by gunmen while attending a burial ceremony today.
A statement from the Plateau state commissioner of Information, Abraham Yiljap confirmed the shooting.
Datong won his first election in to the Senate in 2007 and was re-elected in 2011. He was previously a member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom federal constituencies.
Over 37 people - villagers, aggressors and STF personnel - were killed in Barkin Ladi at the weekend in a new cycle of violence between Fulani herdsmen and Berom tribesmen who co-habit the two local government areas.
Over 9 villages were attacked by people believed to be Fulani in the raids on Saturday.
More details soon.
