In a tragic situation, assailants unleashed a wave of violence, claiming the lives of no fewer than sixty individuals in fresh attacks on three Plateau communities within the Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of the state.
Solomon Mwantiri, leading the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, officially confirmed and vehemently denounced the horrifying events that unfolded in Ruku, Hurum, Darwat, Mai Yanga Sabo, NTV villages in Gashish, and Ropp Districts of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, as well as in Bokkos LGA, on the night of Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24.
The tragic incident resulted in the brutal killing of at least 60 innocent people and caused significant property damage, estimated in millions of naira.
Breaking down the grim statistics, available information reveals that NTV witnessed 9 casualties, Mai Yanga Sabo had 5, Darwat reported 3, and Hurum had 1 victim. However, the neighboring villages of Bokkos suffered the most, with a death toll exceeding 40. The aftermath included numerous injuries, looting of food items, and widespread destruction of properties.
Expressing profound sorrow, the Berom Youth Moulders-Association issued a statement: “The BYM extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of jihad.”
In a show of solidarity, the group assured the affected communities that they stand united during this difficult time. Solomon Mwantiri, the association’s leader, emphasized their commitment to advocate for justice and accountability in the wake of the tragedy.
The association’s statement read, “We called on the government and relevant authorities not only to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and bring them to justice but to swiftly come up with palliative packages as well as compensation for the victims.”
As the Plateau communities grapple with the aftermath of this heinous act, the call for justice, support for the affected families, and urgent government intervention resonates, marking a somber Christmas for the region.