A surge in terrorist attacks has hit several communities in Plateau State, Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people over a two-day period. The attacks occurred despite a dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Mangu, Barkin Ladi, and Bokkos local government areas. The terrorists, identified as Fulani militias, have continued to wreak havoc, destroying over 20 hectares of farmland, homes, churches, business places, and food barns, while also rustling hundreds of livestock.
In Mangu, four people were killed in coordinated attacks on Kikyau, Panyam, and Kasuwan Ali communities, with over 50 cows stolen between Friday and Saturday. The attacks have left residents reeling, with many questioning the effectiveness of the curfew in protecting them from the terrorists. The presence of security personnel seems to have had little impact on the militants, who have continued to carry out their attacks with impunity.
The terrorists also struck a mining site in Kworos Gangare in Barkin Ladi, killing two miners, Phillip Luka, 25, and Sunday John, 34. This attack occurred on the same day as simultaneous raids on several communities in Barkin Ladi, including Jol, Riyom, Exland, Gashish, Rapwomol, and Dorowa Babuje. Three people were reportedly killed in these attacks, and farmlands were destroyed, leading to a protest by community women who barricaded the Jos-Barkin Ladi-Mangu road.
The victims of the attacks in Barkin Ladi were identified as Ishaya Pam Dung, 47, Barnabas Gyang Jack, 23, and Manasseh Luka Mushwer, 26. The community women who protested the attacks demanded action from the government to protect them from the terrorists. The protests highlight the growing frustration among residents who feel that the government is not doing enough to safeguard their lives and property.
On Saturday morning, Kantoma village, a border town between Mangu and Bokkos, was attacked by heavily armed terrorists. Three people were killed, and farmlands, churches, homes, business places, and food barns were destroyed. The attack on Kantoma village has further raised concerns about the security situation in the area and the ability of the government to protect its citizens.
Residents have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of the curfew in preventing further attacks. They wonder if the security agencies responsible for enforcing the curfew are up to the task, given the continued violence and bloodshed. The curfew was imposed to restore peace and order in the area, but its impact seems to have been limited.
The renewed attacks and violence have left many residents feeling vulnerable and unprotected. The government faces growing pressure to take decisive action to stop the terrorists and restore security to the affected communities. The Plateau State government will need to reassess its security strategy to prevent further attacks and protect its citizens.
Key points
- At least 11 people were killed in the terrorist attacks on Plateau communities.
- The attacks occurred despite a dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
- The terrorists destroyed over 20 hectares of farmland, homes, churches, business places, and food barns, and rustled hundreds of livestock.
