From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
An attack on Gidan Ado in Ganawuri Chiefdom, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, has resulted in the deaths of a pregnant woman and 14 other victims.
The attack occurred on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at around 7 p.m., just 24 hours after an expanded security meeting was convened by the authorities of Riyom Local Government.
The meeting, attended by heads of security agencies and the Traditional Council, was aimed at ensuring a peaceful and secure Christmas celebration across the area.
The Chairman of Riyom Local Government, Sati Shuwa, visited the affected community alongside his management team and condemned the attacks, describing them as both unfortunate and unacceptable, especially at a time when the government is working hard to restore peace in the state.
While extending condolences to the bereaved families, the Chairman lamented the continuous unprovoked attacks on innocent citizens across communities within the local government area.
He called on the military and other security agencies to launch swift investigations into the incident, arrest those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice.
He emphasized that criminal elements must not be allowed to continue their reign of terror in the community.
Shuwa assured the people that his administration would collaborate closely with security agencies to uproot the criminals from their hideouts, and anyone found aiding and abetting criminal activity in the local government area would face the full force of the law.
He also urged the communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agencies.
The Chairman expressed his gratitude to Plateau State Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo and other security leaders in the state for their prompt response and visit to the scene of the attack.
In addition, the Chairman and his team visited the Palace of the Ata Atten of Ganawuri to offer their condolences to the monarch over the tragic loss of his subjects.
During the visit, Clement Chup, the National President of the Atten Development Association, and Ezekiel Peter, the National President of the Irigwe Youth Movement, expressed their gratitude to the Executive Chairman and his team for their support.
They also voiced their shock and sorrow over the violent, unprovoked attacks, especially coming after a period of relative peace and as people were preparing for Christmas celebrations.
The 15 victims of the attack have since been buried.