A tragic incident occurred in Gako village, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Sunday night, April 26, when gunmen invaded the community and killed a prominent Christian leader, Reverend Ayuba Choji, along with three members of his immediate family.
The attack, which took place around 11 p.m., also claimed the lives of Reverend Choji's wife, Chundung Ayuba, and their two children, Cyril and Endurance Ayuba. The assailants reportedly stormed the village, firing indiscriminately and causing panic among residents. Many fled into nearby bushes for safety, fearing for their lives.
Residents Describe Horror
A resident, Martha Dalyop, recounted the terrifying experience: "They came late in the night and started shooting everywhere. People ran into the bush for safety. We are no longer safe in our own homes." The attack has heightened tensions in the already troubled region, where clashes between farmers and herders have a long history.
Rwang Tengwong, spokesperson of the Berom Youths Moulder-Association, confirmed the incident and described the coordinated nature of the assault. "The way these attacks are carried out shows clear coordination. While some attack residents, others are busy destroying farms and blocking roads to prevent any form of rescue," he said.
History of Violence in Plateau
Plateau State, located in Nigeria's Middle Belt, has experienced recurring intercommunal violence rooted in land disputes between nomadic herders and indigenous farmers. Climate change and population growth have exacerbated these tensions, leading to the formation of self-defence vigilante groups by farmers. Despite the ongoing violence, residents have accused security forces of failing to protect them adequately.
Zechariah Dachen, a local resident, called for urgent action: "This killing must end now. We call on the government and security agencies to intensify their efforts in securing the lives and properties of the inhabitants of Riyom, other LGAs, as well as other flash points. All concerned should also do everything possible to prevent any possible escalation. Enough is enough."
Another resident, Obadiah Pasayashi, appealed to the perpetrators: "Please, whoever knows anything about these dastardly attacks should stop. This thing has left many families in pain, yet those behind it do not care. They should repent; if not, the wrath of God will not only be upon them but also their generations."
Danladi Bolka vowed resilience: "The people of Plateau will not be broken. No amount of bloodshed, intimidation, or calculated violence will destroy our collective resolve to live together in peace. Those behind these attacks seek to fracture our unity, but they will fail."
Security Response
Efforts to obtain a reaction from Alfred Alabo, the Plateau State police spokesperson, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not returned at the time of this report. The police and other security agencies continue to grapple with insecurity in the state, which has seen numerous attacks in recent years.
The attack on Gako village is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Plateau State, where banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes have become increasingly common. The federal government has been urged to deploy more resources and personnel to address the security challenges in the region.
