Plateau State Tensions Escalate as Youths Kill Four Travelers in Retaliatory Attack
In a tragic escalation of violence, four persons have been reportedly killed after youths suspected to be local indigenes blocked a road and attacked travelers along the Nding axis of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area in Plateau State. This incident occurred shortly after an earlier attack in which gunmen suspected to be Fulani militias shot nine residents dead in Dorowa Babuje village, creating a volatile atmosphere in the region.
Details of the Road Blockade and Attack
Security sources informed security analyst Zagazola Makama that the incident unfolded when a passenger Opel Vectra vehicle carrying civilians was intercepted by a group of youths who had mounted a road blockade along Nding road. The assailants reportedly selected and attacked the occupants of the vehicle, killing four persons on the spot. Security forces later confirmed that five corpses were transported to Jos North, indicating that one additional victim may have died from injuries sustained during the attack, bringing the total fatalities to five.
Heightened Tensions and Community Impact
Two of the victims were identified as indigenes of Jos North, a development that has significantly heightened tension in parts of the metropolis. Residents in areas such as Terminus and Gangare have expressed deep concern over possible reprisals, fearing that the violence could spiral out of control. The sources believe the Nding road incident may have been a retaliatory action triggered by news of the earlier killings, which spread rapidly across nearby communities before security agencies could fully stabilize the situation.
Background of the Initial Attack
One security official stated that the road attack occurred hours after gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits on a revenge mission opened fire on residents at a local bar in Dorowa Babuje, killing seven persons and injuring two others. These attacks followed closely on the heels of other deadly incidents recorded within days on Fulani communities by attackers suspected to be Berom militia across Barikin Ladi and Riyom General areas in Plateau State, highlighting a cycle of violence that has plagued the region.
Security Response and Measures
In response to the escalating crisis, sources said additional personnel had been deployed to flashpoints across Barkin Ladi and adjoining districts to forestall further violence. Joint patrols and stop-and-search operations have also been intensified along major roads and entry routes to prevent escalation and track suspects involved in both incidents. Security agencies have issued warnings to residents against reprisals or mob actions, stressing that such acts could worsen the fragile security situation and lead to more bloodshed.
Appeals for Calm and Community Leadership
Community leaders in affected areas have made urgent appeals for calm, urging youths to allow security forces to handle investigations and avoid taking matters into their own hands. They emphasized the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life and property. The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order and address the underlying issues fueling the conflicts in Plateau State.
