A devastating attack on Gidan Ado community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State has left at least 15 people dead. The incident occurred on Sunday, just two days after the state police command announced the deployment of officers to five local government areas, including Riyom, to bolster security during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Sam Jugo, the National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Community Development Association (IDA), confirmed the incident and disclosed that the attack had been reported to Operation Safe Haven, a multi-security task force maintaining peace in the region. Troops from Operation Safe Haven responded to the incident, but unfortunately, the assailants had already caused significant damage before their arrival.
The victims of the attacks were natives of Irigwe, from Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. The identities of the attackers remain unknown at this time, and the leadership of the Irigwe Development Association has urged caution in making any premature assumptions, as this could hinder ongoing investigations by security agencies.
The association has appealed for calm and hopes that the security forces will take the necessary steps to prevent future attacks or reprisals. This incident is a tragic reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State, which has experienced a series of violent attacks in recent years, including the 2023 Plateau State massacres that left at least 200 people dead.
