Unknown assailants have killed the traditional ruler of Timshat in Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State, Magaji Timshat, Godwin Vonga.
The monarch was reportedly murdered along the Timshat–Mabudi Road on Sunday while returning home after dropping his children at school in Mabudi, a neighbouring community within the local government area.
Until his death, Vonga served as the Magaji of Timshat and was a former councillor representing Nasarawa Ward in Langtang South LGA.
A resident of the community, Nanbol Pirfa, said the killing has plunged Timshat and surrounding communities into mourning, describing the late monarch as a respected traditional leader and dedicated public servant.
Pirfa noted that the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Langtang South Local Government Area, Hon. Nanfa Alhassan Nbin, condemned the killing and described it as a barbaric, unfortunate and unacceptable act.
In a statement issued through his spokesman, Butko Bako Iliya, the chairman expressed shock over the monarch’s death and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Timshat and the entire Langtang South community.
Nbin assured residents that those responsible for the crime would be identified and brought to justice.
He also prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and for God to grant his family and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
The council chairman further warned criminal elements operating within the local government area to desist from unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law.
He called on residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations and lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.