Kwall community in Wakili Tongwe, reported that armed attackers stormed the village in the early hours of Monday, opening fire randomly as residents fled in panic after hearing gunshots.
Speaking to Channels Television over the phone, Tongwe explained that he and a group of vigilantes, along with some security personnel, were on patrol in a neighboring community when the attack occurred, leaving the village vulnerable.
Plateau State has long struggled with violent outbreaks, with armed groups frequently targeting entire communities. One of the deadliest incidents occurred during Christmas celebrations in 2023, when around 200 people were killed in an attack on a predominantly Christian area. Similarly, in May of the previous year, roughly 40 people lost their lives in Wase, where several homes were also set ablaze.
READ ALSO: Community Declares Day Of Prayer As Terror Attack Worsens
While many observers attribute the violence to clashes over land and resources between farmers and herders, Governor Caleb Muftwang believes there are deeper, more sinister motives at play.
“Honestly, I see no explanation other than deliberate acts of genocide driven by terrorism,” the governor said during an appearance on Politics Today, a program on Channels Television. “The real question is: who is behind these terrorist activities? That’s what our security agencies need to uncover.”
Muftwang revealed that bandits have seized control of at least 64 communities across the state.
“As we speak, no fewer than 64 communities in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom local government areas have been overtaken. The original residents were displaced, the areas renamed, and new occupants now live there freely,” he said.
In response to the surge in violence, the Federal Government has pledged to take decisive action. Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of specialized police units to the affected regions to restore security and stability.
