From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
At least 30 people have been confirmed killed, and over 1,000 crop farms have been destroyed from May to date in Bokkos Local Government Council of Plateau State.
The latest attacks, which occurred on Tuesday night September 3rd, 2024, targeted the peaceful communities of Daffo and Kwatas, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 people.
A press statement signed and issued by Barr. Farmasum Fuddang, Chairman Bokkos Cultural Development Council (BCDC) Vanguard and eight other members made available to Journalists in Jos on Wednesday indicating that the latest attacks occurred on September 3, resulting in the deaths of over 10 people in Daffo and Kwatas communities and still counting.
Prime Time News reports that the devastating wave of terror attacks has swept through Bokkos Local Government Area in Plateau State, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake.
Barr. Fuddang told our correspondent that the suspected terrorists launched simultaneous assaults on both communities, leaving a scene of carnage and despair.
“In Daffo, the attack began around 7 pm, targeting residents in a commercial area near a military base. At least seven people lost their lives in the brutal assault. Similarly, in Kwatas and Ambul-Barkish, four people were killed in a coordinated attack.
The BCDC Vanguard has expressed outrage and betrayal over the resurgence of attacks, despite peace agreements with the Nigerian military.
The group’s chairman, Barr. Farmasum Fuddang demanded answers and swift action from those responsible for protecting the community.
The attacks have reignited fears that the suspected Fulani herdsmen are not to be trusted, as the community has suffered consistent armed attacks since 2013, resulting in over 500 deaths and the forced annexation of their communities.
The BCDC Vanguard has called for an investigation into the role of soldiers manning the nearby base in Daffo.
“The Nigerian government must take immediate action to address the root causes of these attacks and ensure the safety and security of all citizens
The group has also appealed to the international community to rise and demand justice for their people. They are seeking adequate compensation for those who have suffered violence and the dislodging of terrorist camps in the area.
As the incessant attacks continue, the people of Bokkos are living in fear for their lives.
The BCDC Vanguard has vowed to continue advocating for the rights and protection of their people and to hold those responsible for the attacks accountable.
They called on the international community to condemn the heinous crimes and demand justice for the victims and their families.
However the Plateau State Police command has confirmed the killing of eight persons last night.
The Public Relations officer of the command, DSP Alfred Alabo, when contacted, said he was still waiting for more details of the attacks from the Divisional Police officer of Bokkos Local Government for proper information.
Meanwhile, in a swift reaction, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has expressed deep sorrow over the brutal killing of innocent individuals by gunmen in the Daffo and Kwatas communities of Bokkos Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang condemned the attack, describing it as both tragic and intolerable as the state is achieving a return to relative peace.
He directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous act and bring them to justice.
The Governor extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the deceased and offered prayers for the quick recovery of those who sustained various degrees of injuries in the attack.
Governor Mutfwang also commended the security agencies for their dedication and sacrifice, while urging them to enhance their intelligence gathering to enable more timely and effective responses.
Reassuring the people of Daffo and Kwatas of the commitment his administration to the protection of their lives and property, Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the incident would not deter his administration’s resolve to restore and sustain lasting peace across Plateau State.
He also called on all residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities by criminal elements to the authorities for prompt action.