Fresh Plateau Attack: Gunmen Kill 8 in Mbwelle Village, Community Leaders Decry Security Absence
In a tragic incident that has once again highlighted the security challenges in Nigeria's Plateau State, no fewer than eight persons were brutally killed by gunmen in Mbwelle village, located within the Bokkos Local Government Area. The attack occurred on the night of Thursday, April 9, 2026, leaving the community in mourning and raising serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures in the region.
Details of the Deadly Assault
The gunmen invaded Mbwelle village around 11 pm, opening fire indiscriminately on residents. According to reports, most of the victims were members of the same family, underscoring the targeted nature of the violence. The victims have been identified as Elder Iliya Mangut Dakus, Mr. Luck Titus Dakus, Mr. Habila Istifanu Dakus, Mr. Hassan Istifanus Dakus, Mrs. Hassan Moses Dakus, Biggie Lucky Dakus, Sunday Gideon Dakus, and Mr. Innocent Barnabas Makwin.
Kefas Mallai, the Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos LGA, provided a harrowing account of the attack. He lamented that the assault lasted for several hours, with no visible security presence to drive back the gunmen. Mallai expressed deep frustration, noting that the community is considering protests due to the perceived failure of security forces to protect them.
Community Leaders Voice Outrage
Mallai further alleged that security forces did not respond despite the proximity of the community to Bokkos town, where security personnel are typically stationed. He stated, "The people are saying they want to protest because the security men have not protected them, and the attack lasted for hours, and yet, no presence of security to repel the assailants until those people finished and left. No trace."
Christopher Luka, the Youth Leader of Bokkos, described the attack as sad and devastating. He confirmed that the gunmen targeted one family predominantly during the assault. Luka added, "We have eight confirmed dead, some seriously injured, and others still unaccounted for." This statement highlights the broader impact of the attack, with injuries and missing persons adding to the tragedy.
Broader Context of Violence in Plateau State
This incident is not isolated, as Plateau State has been grappling with a series of violent attacks in recent times. Recall that Governor Caleb Mutfwang recently revealed that gunmen disguised as National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operatives attacked a Jos community, killing 28 people. Despite ongoing investigations, security forces are yet to make arrests in that case, further eroding public confidence.
Adding to the tension, this fresh attack in Mbwelle village occurred barely 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Plateau State. During his visit on April 3, 2026, President Tinubu met with grieving families of victims from the Angwan Rukuba killing in Jos North and made a strong vow to address the security crisis. However, on the same day as his visit, another attack was carried out in the Nyango Gyel community of Jos South LGA, resulting in additional deaths.
Calls for Action and Accountability
The repeated attacks in Plateau State have sparked outrage among residents and community leaders, who are demanding more robust security measures and accountability from authorities. The lack of a timely response during the Mbwelle village attack has particularly fueled anger, with many questioning the commitment of security agencies to protect vulnerable communities.
Governor Mutfwang has assured residents of actionable intelligence in pursuit of attackers, but such promises have done little to assuage fears in the face of ongoing violence. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive security strategy to prevent further loss of life and restore peace in Plateau State.
As investigations into the Mbwelle village attack continue, the community remains on edge, mourning the loss of their loved ones and hoping for justice. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria and the critical importance of effective governance in safeguarding citizens.
