Recent brutal attacks across rural communities in Plateau and Benue states have resulted in significant casualties, injuries, and displacement, highlighting a severe and recurring security crisis. These incidents underscore a troubling pattern of violence, with community leaders and officials expressing grave concerns over the apparent impunity of assailants and the perceived inaction of security forces.

In Plateau State, specifically the Bindi community in Ta-Hoss district of Riyom Local Council, gunmen launched a devastating assault on a Monday night, killing no fewer than 20 people, with some reports from youth leaders claiming 27 fatalities. An unspecified number of others were injured as residents fled for safety. The assailants, identified by survivors as Fulani militias, stormed the village, systematically slaughtering innocent people, including women, children, and the aged, and setting multiple houses ablaze. This attack occurred despite a visible security presence in and around the area, prompting the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) to criticize the lack of effective protection and question systemic compromises. COPDEM emphasized that these attackers are not unknown, with their hideouts repeatedly identified and reported, yet they continue to strike with impunity.

The widespread nature of these atrocities in Plateau was further highlighted by Senator Pam Dachungyang, representing Plateau North, who condemned similar killings in Jol, Rim, and Jebu villages within his constituency. He stated that these attacks have claimed over 30 lives, describing the situation as akin to a war, with innocent villagers and their livelihoods, particularly farmers, being targeted. Senator Dachungyang called for urgent action to address the escalating violence.

Meanwhile, Benue State is also grappling with the aftermath of a major assault. James Iorpuu, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), confirmed that 107 victims of the June 13 Yelwata attack in the Guma council area are still hospitalized, receiving treatment for their injuries. He disclosed that this particular onslaught tragically claimed over 200 lives, underscoring the massive carnage inflicted upon rural communities in the state. Iorpuu, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, expressed deep concern over the incessant nature of these attacks.

Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers

In response to the escalating violence, various groups and officials have called for immediate and decisive action. COPDEM urged President Bola Tinubu, the Plateau State government, and security agencies to order a high-level intervention, including military operations to dismantle known terrorist enclaves. They also advocated for a declaration of a state of emergency in the affected areas and the provision of direct humanitarian relief, community rebuilding efforts, and trauma support. The recurrent nature of these attacks across both states points to a dire need for comprehensive security strategies and accountability to protect vulnerable populations and restore peace.