Gunmen Invade Community, Kill 15 Residents Amid Christmas Preparations

At least 15 people were killed in a late-night attack on Gidan Ado community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday.

The attack occurred 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 to newsmen on Monday.

He 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,” Jugo said.

Jugo, the Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Development Association, revealed that the victims of the attacks were natives of Irigwe, from Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.

He said, “According to reports from our emissary, the following individuals were killed: Dauda Arabo (48), Hassana Wula (52), Basuna Moses (22), Faith Basuna (19), Laraba Randi (18), Danlami Gado (50), Moses Yakubu (48), Azumi Moses (13), Talatu Hassan (42), Chama Ernest (20), Agumo Monday (20), Sheba Ernest (1), Mary Stephen (33), and Isere Moses (3).

“Linda Moses (32), who sustained severe injuries, is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed location. The identities of the attackers remain unknown at this time.

“We urge caution in making any premature assumptions, as this could hinder ongoing investigations by security agencies. While appealing for calm, the leadership of the Irigwe Development Association hopes that the security forces will take the necessary steps to prevent future attacks or reprisals.

“It is heartbreaking that we have lost our people, with whom we had hoped to celebrate the upcoming festive season. Their lives have been tragically cut short,” Jugo added.