By Faith Eze
Plateau State has once again been shaken by violence as armed gunmen launched a series of brutal and coordinated attacks across four different communities within the Mangu Local Government Area. According to detailed reports shared by news sources, the wave of violence left at least four people dead, including a 55-year-old man who was gruesomely beheaded. The string of tragic events has sparked widespread outrage, heightening tensions in the region and leaving residents in deep fear and sorrow.
The disturbing details of the incidents were brought to light through an official statement issued by the Mwaghavul Development Association on behalf of the local communities. The group detailed how the attacks occurred successively across multiple settlements within a short span of three days. In one of the most horrific dimensions of the violence, a 55-year-old man identified as Geoffrey Gumut was attacked and beheaded in Kikyau village, located within the Mangu Halle District. Local reports indicated that his severed head was not immediately recovered at the time the alarm was raised, adding a deeply traumatizing layer of grief to the tragedy.
In addition to that gruesome incident, the attackers struck other communities, claiming more lives and leaving individuals with severe injuries. In Kinat village, a young man named Katbam Titus was killed during a nighttime raid. Meanwhile, in Ntul village of the Mangu District, two other individuals identified as Pius Dachen and Zadok Irmiya were also murdered by the assailants. Another resident, Danjuma Kyesle, sustained severe machete cuts during an assault in Larkas village and was rushed to a medical facility for urgent treatment. The community groups pointed out the disturbing nature of the Larkas attack, noting that it happened even while security personnel were reportedly stationed within the area.
What makes these renewed hostilities particularly heartbreaking for local leaders is the timing of the violence. The attacks occurred shortly after security engagements were held to foster peace. Reports revealed that the General Officer Commanding the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army had recently visited Mangu to convene an extensive peace meeting with community stakeholders, local leaders, and pastoralist representatives to urge an end to recurring hostilities. Community representatives expressed deep frustration that these peace efforts were swiftly undermined by violent elements who continue to operate with brazen disregard for human life and security measures.
Local youth organizations and community leaders have urgently called on the federal government, the Plateau State government, and security agencies to step up protection for vulnerable rural settlements. They are demanding a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation to track down the perpetrators, ensure their arrest, and bring them to justice. As security patrols are reinforced to prevent any potential escalation or reprisal, residents continue to mourn the victims and hope for lasting security interventions that will permanently halt the cycle of bloodshed in the region.