Fresh Attack on Plateau Communities Leaves Casualties and Raises Concerns

 

At least six people have reportedly been killed in a fresh attack by gunmen on Marit and Gashish communities in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident, which took place on Monday, May 5, 2025, also left many others injured and hospitalized.

Sources from the area informed Daily Trust that the gunmen attacked the communities while residents were asleep.

Hon. Stephen Pwajok Gyang, the executive chairman of Barkin Ladi, confirmed the tragedy in a statement released by his press secretary, Mercy Yop. The statement further revealed that the victims were given a mass burial on Monday.

The council chairman strongly condemned the attacks and called for decisive action to prevent further bloodshed in the area and across the local government.

During a visit to the injured victims at Barkin Ladi General Hospital, Hon. Pwajok expressed deep sorrow and disappointment over the resurgence of violence in the area, particularly as the local government administration has been diligently working to foster peace and stability.

“Hon. Pwajok acknowledged the efforts of vigilantes and security agencies in maintaining law and order, while urging them to be more proactive and vigilant in preventing further attacks. He emphasized that the cycle of violence must be brought to an end and called on all relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, community leaders, and residents, to join hands in promoting peace and security in Barkin Ladi,” the statement read.

The statement also conveyed the council boss’s prayers for God’s comfort and peace for the affected families and communities and urged healthcare personnel to attend promptly to the survivors' needs.

This latest attack occurred just two weeks after similar assaults on communities in Bokkos and Bassa between March and April 2025, which resulted in the deaths of over 100 people, including women and children.