In a tragic incident that has left the community of Adu village of Bassa LGA in shock, suspected militias launched a brutal attack that resulted in the loss of eight lives, including two minors. The horrifying assault took place at approximately 9 pm on Sunday, October 1, 2023, catching most residents off guard as they had retired to the safety of their homes.
Davidson Malison, the National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), confirmed this harrowing event in a statement issued on Monday. He described it as yet another heart-wrenching episode of violence and destruction that has plagued Plateau State.
Malison provided a chilling account of the attack, saying, “The gunmen stormed the community at about 2010hrs, positioned themselves, and unleashed a hail of bullets on the unsuspecting victims while they were asleep.” He went on to reveal that within minutes, eight innocent lives were lost, and five others sustained injuries, all of whom are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals.
The Rigwe Nation, already reeling from the tragedy, finds itself in a state of profound sorrow. Danjuma Avu, a resident of Adu village, shared his traumatic experience, recounting how the attackers opened fire on people gathered at the mini market square. Avu tragically lost two of his own children and six other relatives during the onslaught. He described how the assailants, after attacking those outside, proceeded to enter a building where his children, who were undergoing medical treatment, and two others were shot.
The victims, consisting of five males, one female, and two minors, have been laid to rest in the village cemetery as the community grapples with the unbearable loss. Meanwhile, the injured individuals continue to receive critical medical care at local hospitals.
The incident has left the entire region deeply shaken, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced security measures and a concerted effort to ensure the safety and well-being of the people in Plateau State.