Barely 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu visited Jos to reassure residents and victims of recent violence, fresh attacks have struck communities in Plateau State, raising serious concerns over the fragile security situation.
In the early hours of Friday, suspected terrorists reportedly from the Rankum (Mahanga) area attacked Jol community in Riyom Local Government Area, killing 51-year-old Dalyop Betobeje, a report by Channels TV has disclosed.
Local leaders described the assault as a direct affront to ongoing peace efforts in the state.
The latest incident follows another deadly attack in Heipang District, Bassa Local Government Area. According to the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), gunmen suspected to be herdsmen stormed Ban village around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, killing a secondary school student, Gloria Godwin, injuring several others, and destroying property.
Security sources confirmed that the police are investigating the incidents and have launched operations to apprehend those responsible.
In a statement, BYM condemned the attacks as “brutal and senseless acts,” stressing that they reflect the persistent security challenges facing Plateau communities.
Jacob Pam Chall, Chairman of BYM Heipang District, called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators, urging security agencies to sustain their operations to ensure justice. “Our communities deserve safety and peace,” he said.
Residents were also urged to remain calm, strengthen vigilance, and cooperate with security forces to prevent further violence.
President Tinubu, during his visit on Wednesday, had assured victims and residents of the federal government’s commitment to ending the cycle of killings and restoring lasting peace. “I promise you this experience will not repeat itself,” he stated.
However, the renewed attacks in Riyom and Heipang have cast doubt over these assurances, underscoring the urgent need for sustained and decisive security interventions. Plateau State has recently witnessed a resurgence of attacks, particularly in rural communities, heightening fears and testing government efforts to maintain peace.
