At least nine people, including a pastor, have been killed in separate attacks by gunmen across communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom and neighbouring areas of Plateau State.
The attacks reportedly occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning, with residents and community leaders calling for increased security presence and urgent action to prevent further violence.
Five passengers travelling towards Gana-Ropp were reportedly killed during an attack on Saturday night. The victims were said to have been travelling when they were intercepted by gunmen.
On Sunday morning, a pastor and another person were attacked while travelling to church in Dorowa Babuje. Further casualties were reported in Baten Wereng and Ratyidi, bringing the reported death toll from the separate incidents to at least nine.
The attacks have heightened concerns among residents of communities in the affected areas, which have experienced recurring security challenges.
Community leaders condemned the latest violence and called for stronger security measures to protect residents and travellers.
The Mwaghavul Development Association and Berom Youth Moulders were among the groups that expressed concern over the killings. They urged security agencies to intensify patrols, establish a stronger presence in vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are arrested and brought to justice.
The violence was also accompanied by reports of cattle being stolen or killed in the affected areas, adding to concerns among residents whose livelihoods depend on farming and livestock.
Following the attacks, the Plateau State Police Command deployed additional personnel to the affected communities as part of efforts to restore security and prevent further incidents.
The latest violence comes against the backdrop of longstanding communal and security tensions in parts of Plateau State. Communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom and surrounding areas have previously experienced attacks linked to disputes, criminal activity and wider communal tensions.
Security agencies are expected to continue operations in the affected locations while authorities assess the circumstances surrounding the attacks.
Residents have also appealed for timely intervention and improved intelligence gathering to enable security agencies to identify potential threats before attacks occur.
The latest incidents have renewed calls from community representatives for sustained security operations rather than temporary deployments following attacks.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the killings and identify those responsible.
