10 Dead, Many Missing in Plateau Community Attack

At least 10 people were killed on Sunday night during a violent raid on Gidan Ado, an Irigwe settlement in Ganawuri Chiefdom, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

The attack, described as devastating and unprovoked, left the community in mourning and struggling to cope with significant losses.

An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, recounted the tragic events with deep anguish. "I immediately contacted the Special Task Force (STF), Operation Safe Haven, to intervene and prevent further killings. The destruction was enormous, and the community is shattered," he said.

The source revealed that the attack left many residents missing, while several houses were burnt. A youth leader in the settlement, who was seen weeping uncontrollably, confirmed the deaths and the extensive destruction.

"This is a community preparing for Christmas in their traditional way, yet they were met with such senseless violence. It’s heartbreaking," the eyewitness lamented.

The Irigwe community has called on the government and security agencies to take immediate action to protect vulnerable settlements in Plateau State. "We need swift intervention to prevent such atrocities and provide relief to displaced women and children," another source urged.

Despite efforts to reach the Deputy Director of Information of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major Aliyu Danja, calls went unanswered. However, a senior military officer, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the attack. "Troops have been deployed to the area and are now on top of the situation," the officer stated.

The attack has reignited fears of recurring violence during festive periods. Observers have drawn parallels to last year’s Christmas Eve tragedy in Bokkos, where bandits killed dozens and destroyed property worth millions of naira. 

The Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, Emmanuel Adesina, has reportedly implemented measures to curb such violence. However, the remote and inaccessible location of Gidan Ado poses significant challenges for security forces.