Four people have been killed in separate attacks on four communities in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, with a 55-year-old man reportedly beheaded and another person seriously injured.
The incidents, which occurred within three days, were reported by the Mwaghavul Development Association and Mwaghavul Youth Movement in a statement issued on Sunday.
The latest attack occurred in Kinat on the night of September 12, where 29-year-old Katbam Titus was reportedly killed by armed attackers.
The killing came only hours after the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, visited Mangu and held a security engagement with Mwaghavul and Fulani leaders. During the meeting, the GOC reportedly assured the communities that the Army would take action against any group attacking others.
The Mwaghavul group said the Kinat incident followed three other attacks in the preceding days.
In Kikyau, Mangu Halle District, 55-year-old Geoffrey Gumut was reportedly beheaded on September 11. According to the group, his head had not been recovered as of the time the statement was issued.
In Larkas, Panyam District, 45-year-old Danjuma Kyesle was reportedly attacked with a machete and remained in medical care. The group expressed concern over the circumstances of the attack, particularly its claim that security personnel were stationed in the community when the incident occurred.
Two other residents, 50-year-old Pius Dachen and 25-year-old Zadok Irmiya, were reportedly killed in Ntul, Mangu District.
The four incidents have heightened concerns over the security situation in the area, with community leaders questioning how armed attackers could continue to strike despite recent security engagements and assurances.
The Mwaghavul Youth Movement called on the GOC and other security agencies to conduct thorough, independent and transparent investigations into the attacks and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
The group also called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Larkas attack, including allegations concerning the presence of security personnel in the community at the time.
It urged the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and take decisive measures against armed groups.
The movement also appealed to Fulani leaders who participated in the recent security dialogue to demonstrate their commitment to peace by helping to identify and discourage armed elements responsible for attacks.
The group mourned the victims and expressed solidarity with their families and the affected communities, while praying for those wounded.
The latest violence adds to continuing security concerns in Plateau State, where authorities have repeatedly been urged to adopt proactive measures to prevent attacks and protect rural communities.
Efforts to obtain reactions from the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and the Plateau State Police Command were reportedly unsuccessful as of press time.
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