Fresh Plateau Attack Claims Life Hours After Tinubu’s Visit

Fresh Plateau Attack Claims Life Hours After Tinubu’s Visit

Barely a day after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Plateau State to reassure residents following recent violence, another attack has left one person dead, underscoring persistent security concerns in the region.

The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when suspected gunmen reportedly attacked Jol community in Riyom Local Government Area, killing 51-year-old Dalyop Betobeje.

Local sources said the assailants, believed to have come from the Rankum (Mahanga) axis, struck around 6:56 a.m., sparking fresh anxiety among residents already grappling with a series of violent incidents.

Community leaders described the attack as a setback to ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace, coming so soon after the President’s visit to Jos, where he had pledged federal support to end the cycle of killings.

The development follows another deadly assault earlier in the week in Heipang District of Bassa Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly invaded Ban village on Wednesday night.

According to the Berom Youth Moulders Association, the attackers killed a secondary school student, Gloria Godwin, injured several others and destroyed property during the raid.

In a statement, the group condemned the violence, describing it as “a brutal and senseless act” that reflects the ongoing security challenges in Plateau communities.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to those injured,” the statement read.

Chairman of the association in Heipang District, Jacob Pam Chall, called for intensified efforts by security agencies, urging authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

“It is imperative that security agencies sustain this momentum and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. Our communities deserve safety and peace,” he said.

Security sources confirmed that investigations have commenced, with efforts underway to track down those behind the attacks.

The renewed violence comes shortly after Tinubu’s visit to Plateau, during which he met with victims and community leaders, assuring them of the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the bloodshed.

“I promise you this experience will not repeat itself,” the President had said while addressing affected families.

However, the fresh attack in Riyom and the earlier incident in Bassa have raised concerns about the fragile security situation in the state, particularly in rural communities where residents continue to live in fear.

Plateau has witnessed a resurgence of violence in recent months, testing the effectiveness of security measures and highlighting the urgency for sustained intervention to restore lasting peace.