14 Killed in Plateau Night Attack

At least 14 people have been killed and one other injured in a nighttime attack on Gidan Ado community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred late Monday, has plunged the state into mourning just days before the Christmas festivities.

Sam Jugo, National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Community Development Association (IDA), confirmed the attack to journalists, stating that it had been reported to Operation Safe Haven, a multi-agency security task force tasked with maintaining peace in the state. According to Jugo, troops from the operation responded promptly to the scene.

However, both Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, and DSP Alabo Alfred of the state police command have yet to respond to inquiries about the incident as of press time.

The attack comes just two days after police authorities deployed officers to five local government areas in Plateau State, including Riyom, to bolster security during the holiday season. The victims, according to Jugo, were natives of Irigwe from Bassa Local Government Area.

The victims of the attack were identified as Dauda Arabo (48), Hassana Wula (52), Basuna Moses (22), Faith Basuna (19), Laraba Randi (18), Danlami Gado (50), Moses Yakubu (48), Azumi Moses (13), Talatu Hassan (42), Chama Ernest (20), Agumo Monday (20), Sheba Ernest (1), Mary Stephen (33), and Isere Moses (3). One survivor, Linda Moses (32), sustained severe injuries and is receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed location.

While the identities of the attackers remain unknown, Jugo emphasized the need to avoid speculation, noting that ongoing investigations should not be compromised. He also called for calm and urged security agencies to take necessary measures to prevent further violence.

“Our hearts bleed for the demise of our kinsmen, whom we had hoped to celebrate this yuletide with, but their lives have been tragically cut short,” Jugo said. The IDA expressed hope that authorities would act swiftly to prevent any recurrence or retaliatory attacks.