15 dead in Plateau attack as community mourns

At least 15 people have been killed, and several others injured, in an attack on Gidan Ado community in Ganawuri, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident occurred on Sunday night, plunging the community into mourning during what should have been a festive period.

The victims, mostly members of the Irigwe ethnic group from Bassa Local Government Area, were reportedly targeted in the assault that has once again highlighted the fragile peace in the region.

Riyom LGA Chairman, Sati Shuwa, confirmed the tragic event, stating, “The community was attacked on Sunday night. Fifteen people were killed. A mass burial has been conducted, and two survivors are receiving treatment in a hospital.”

The National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Sam Jugo, provided further details about the victims. “The deceased include men, women, and even a one-year-old child,” Jugo said. Among those killed were Dauda Arabo (48), Hassana Wula (52), Basuna Moses (22), Faith Basuna (19), and Laraba Randi (18).

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Linda Moses (32), one of the survivors, sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed location.

“Our hearts bleed for the demise of our kinsmen,” Jugo lamented in a statement. “May their souls rest in peace, and may God comfort their families and the Irigwe nation.” He also urged security agencies to take immediate action to prevent further violence or reprisals.

Despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to ensure a peaceful holiday season through engagements with local communities, armed men managed to carry out the attack.

The Plateau State Police Command and the military’s Operation Safe Haven (OpSH) have launched investigations into the incident. However, no official statement has been released regarding the perpetrators or the motive behind the attack.

The attack is a grim reminder of the persistent tensions in Plateau State, a region plagued by intercommunal violence over the years. The latest incident has once again disrupted the fragile peace, leaving the community grappling with grief and fear.

As the investigation continues, local leaders and stakeholders have called for calm and urged security forces to intensify efforts to prevent further violence.

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