A series of violent attacks has struck Plateau State, Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 people. The attacks occurred in various local government areas, including Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Mangu, between Saturday night and Sunday. The incidents have left residents in a state of fear and tension, with many calling for increased security measures to prevent further violence.
One of the attacks occurred on Saturday at around 7:30 pm, when gunmen opened fire on a Vectra vehicle traveling from Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area to Mangu. The attack resulted in the deaths of five people, including four passengers and the driver. According to Ukasha Garba, the Pyem Youth Leader in Gana-Ropp, the victims included four miners and the driver, who was from Gindiri town.
The National President of the Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA), Bulus Dabit, confirmed the incident and called on security agencies to arrest those responsible. Dabit expressed concern over the continued attacks, which he said were causing pain and fear among residents. He urged the authorities to strengthen security in vulnerable communities and ensure that residents could go about their lawful activities without fear.
In another incident, two people, including a pastor, were killed on their way to church at Dorowa Babuje in Barkin Ladi. Additionally, a woman was reportedly killed at Baten Wereng in Riyom Local Government Area on Saturday night, while another person was killed at Ratyidi in Fan District on the same day. These incidents have contributed to the rising tensions in the affected communities.
On Sunday, three herders were killed in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. According to Abubakar Gambo, the Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Barkin Ladi, the incident occurred when the victims, who were conveying cattle from Bokkos to Jos South, were attacked by gunmen. Two other people sustained injuries in the attack.
The MACBAN leadership in the area has called on its members to remain calm and allow security agencies to investigate the attacks. The Operation Enduring Peace Sector Commander in Barkin Ladi has visited the scene, and the corpses have been evacuated by personnel. The spokesman of the Berom Youth Moulders (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, condemned the killings, describing the incidents as worrisome and unacceptable.
The BYM spokesman called on security agencies to urgently strengthen their presence in the affected communities, stressing that the killing of innocent people must stop. The fresh attacks have further heightened fear among residents, with many calling for an end to the violence. Security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to restore law and order.
Key points
- At least 12 people killed in separate attacks in Plateau State, Nigeria.
- Attacks occurred in various local government areas, including Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Mangu.
- Residents are calling for increased security measures to prevent further violence.
