At least 15 people lost their lives, and several others were injured in a brutal attack on the Gidan Ado community in Ganawuri, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, targeted members of the Irigwe ethnic group from Bassa LGA, leaving the community in deep mourning.
Despite intensified security measures aimed at ensuring peaceful Christmas celebrations through community engagements, armed assailants struck, unleashing chaos in the area.
Confirming the tragic event, Riyom LGA Chairman, Sati Shuwa, said, “The community was attacked on Sunday night. Fifteen people were killed. A mass burial has been conducted, and two survivors are receiving treatment in a hospital.”
The National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Sam Jugo, provided a detailed list of the victims, including men, women, and a one-year-old child. The deceased include Dauda Arabo (48), Hassana Wula (52), Basuna Moses (22), Faith Basuna (19), Laraba Randi (18), among others. Linda Moses (32) sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed location.
Expressing sorrow over the incident, Jugo urged for calm and called on security agencies to prevent further violence. “Our hearts bleed for the loss of our kinsmen. May their souls rest in peace, and may God comfort their families and the Irigwe nation,” he stated.
The Plateau State Police Command and Operation Safe Haven (OpSH) have launched investigations into the attack but have not released additional details.
This tragic event highlights the persistent fragility of peace in Plateau State, which has experienced recurrent episodes of violence over the years. Communities and stakeholders continue to call for sustained efforts to prevent further loss of life and restore stability to the region.
Hobnob News.
