In yet another wave of violence, at least ten people lost their lives on Wednesday following a coordinated attack on five communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The assault comes merely six days after a similar incident in the Ruwi community of Bokkos, where gunmen opened fire on mourners at a wake-keep, killing over ten individuals and injuring three others.
Chairman of the Bokkos Cultural Development Council (BCDC) Vanguard, Farmasum Fuddang, confirmed the latest attacks, detailing how the assailants moved through multiple villages, leaving devastation in their wake.
“There were attacks yesterday affecting five villages,” Fuddang explained. “It began in Mongor, but security forces managed to repel the attackers. However, they regrouped and struck Daffo, where another confrontation with security personnel forced them to retreat. From there, they moved on to Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai, carrying out further assaults.”
Fuddang commended the swift response of the Nigerian military and police, which, he noted, helped prevent more casualties.
He also called on emergency agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and the Nigerian Red Cross to urgently assist the displaced and injured victims.
The recent attacks have triggered mass displacement, with terrified residents fleeing their homes in search of safety. Many have sought refuge in neighboring communities, unsure when they can return.
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Reacting to the violence, the Plateau State Government denounced the attacks in Mangor Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna (Tagai), Hurti, and Tadai. In a telephone interview, Commissioner of Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, extended condolences to the affected families and called for restraint among residents.
“We deeply sympathize with the victims and their families. I urge our citizens to remain calm and vigilant. Security forces are actively working to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Ramnap stated.
She also praised the efforts of security personnel in responding swiftly to the crisis and assured the public that the government remains committed to ensuring peace and stability in the state.
Meanwhile, security operatives continue their efforts to track down the attackers, while humanitarian organizations prepare to provide aid to those affected by the unrest.
The recent surge in violence in Plateau State has raised concerns about security in the region, with many calling for a more robust response from authorities to prevent further loss of lives and property.