No fewer than 16 people were gruesomely murdered and many injured on Saturday by gunmen in the Lisham Kwahasnat community of Mangu local government areas of Plateau State.

An eyewitness said that the gunmen suspected to be killer herdsmen stormed the community in large numbers at about 10:45 p.m. when the inhabitants were preparing to go to bed.

The eyewitness said that the killers on entering the community randomly shot the residents at random, in an operation that lasted for about an hour.

It was gathered that the injuried were taken to Mangu General Hospital for treatment.

The eyewitness further stated that the 16 people killed were given a mass burial on Sunday, amid tension in the entire local government area.

National President, Mangu Development Association (MDA), Sir Joseph Gwankat, who confirmed the incident, said the latest attack on the community came to them as a rude shock to all the peace-loving people of the council and the entire state.

He said, “The latest attack was a big surprise to us. No one expected the attack in view of the series of peace meetings the natives had with the Fulanis in recent times, the last of such meetings convened by the military was held last week on Monday.

“The Fulani herdsmen came last night and unleashed terror on the people of this community, killing 16 people and injuring others. Those who sustained injuries are at the hospital. We just buried the 16 that were killed.

“I found it difficult to explain because we had met several times with the Fulani people. Just last week, we had a meeting with the Fulani and the natives under the auspices of the organ set up by the GOC, and it was well attended. We resolved to embrace peace, but in spite of this, these people are still attacking. It means we are not telling each other the truth. As long as what we say is not what we do, this thing will continue.

“We have conceded a lot, and each time we have a peace meeting, whatever we say is not what we do. As long as there is an attack, this thing will continue. If they stop the attack today, all the crises will stop. Whatever happened is just a fallback on the previous attack.

“We have talked to our boys and they have embraced peace, but they still keep coming to attack us, killing people like animals. How do we have peace in the midst of all these killings? This is just an act of terrorism,” he said.

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has strongly condemned attack.

He has therefore directed security agencies to promptly apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the heinous acts and ensure they face the full force of the law.

In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs Gyang Bere,the governor expressed deep concern over the unacceptable violence, and urged communities across the state to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities to security forces for immediate action. He questioned the impunity of the attackers who inflict harm on communities, destroy property, and evade justice.

The governor , who stressed the importance of collective collaboration among rural communities, assured that proactive measures would be taken by government to curb the ongoing attacks on innocent citizens. He sympathised with affected families, and urged them to find solace in God as the government diligently works to end the prolonged violence.

While wishing swift recovery to those injured, Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to pursuing peace and unity. He reassured the public that these goals remain top priorities, with continuous efforts until the desired results are achieved.

The governor extended his heartfelt prayers for a peaceful Christmas celebration in Plateau and across the country. (Sunday Sun)

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