The relentless wave of violence in Plateau State persists despite government assurances, with a new attack claiming 40 lives in the Zike community, Kimakpa, Kwall district of Bassa Local Government Area. The assault occurred in the early hours of Monday, when gunmen stormed the village, firing indiscriminately at residents fleeing for safety after hearing gunshots.
Wakili Tongwe, a Kwall community leader, recounted the incident, explaining that he and a team of vigilantes, along with security personnel, were patrolling another community when the attackers struck. Although security forces engaged the assailants and managed to drive them off, the damage was severe: 36 people were killed on the spot, with four others succumbing later to their injuries. Several residents sustained gunshot wounds and are receiving treatment in hospitals.
This attack, which has yet to be addressed by state security agencies, comes less than two weeks after 52 people were killed in communities within Bokkos Local Government Area. Plateau State has long been plagued by violence, with entire communities devastated by gunmen. Notable incidents include the Christmas 2023 massacre, where approximately 200 people, primarily Christians, were killed, and a May 2024 attack in Wase that claimed around 40 lives and left homes in ashes.
Experts often attribute the violence to conflicts over resources between farmers and herders. However, Governor Caleb Muftwang insists there is a deeper motive. In a recent interview, he described the attacks as “genocide sponsored by terrorists,” urging security agencies to uncover the masterminds. Muftwang revealed that bandits have seized control of at least 64 communities across Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom local governments, displacing residents, renaming areas, and occupying the land.
The Federal Government has vowed to take decisive action against the assailants, with Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun ordering the immediate deployment of tactical police units to the affected areas to curb the escalating violence.
