24 killed, many injured in fresh Plateau attack

A violent attack on the Binper community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, with many others sustaining serious injuries. Residents reported that the assault, which occurred between Monday night and early Tuesday morning, was carried out by heavily armed individuals.

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Our village came under attack last night and in the early hours of today, (yesterday), by heavily armed persons. They were moving from house to house, opening the doors of people who were sleeping and slaughtering them.

Eyewitnesses described a horrific scene where attackers moved systematically from house to house, forcing entry into homes and attacking residents as they slept. Daniel Musa, an eyewitness, stated, “Our village came under attack last night and in the early hours of today, (yesterday), by heavily armed persons. They were moving from house to house, opening the doors of people who were sleeping and slaughtering them.” He confirmed that over 24 deaths were recorded by morning, with several others injured and some residents still missing.

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As of this morning, we have confirmed over 24 deaths, while several others sustained serious injuries and some people are still missing.

John Dalyop, another resident, described the situation as "terrible" and urged the new Commissioner of Police to act swiftly. He condemned the attack as barbaric and called for urgent strengthening of security in Mangu and other vulnerable areas of Plateau State. The Mwaghavul Youth Movement confirmed the 24 fatalities, expressing "deep grief, anger and profound dissatisfaction." The group highlighted that the attack not only resulted in loss of life but also devastated families and threatened livelihoods, particularly for residents who depend on agriculture.

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We expected the new Commissioner of Police in the state to act quickly and go after those responsible.

Women from the Bin-Per community staged a peaceful protest, carrying leaves and lamenting the killings, demanding urgent government action. The attack has raised serious questions about the effectiveness and responsiveness of the security system, especially given the presence of security architecture intended to protect residents. Efforts are underway to account for the missing individuals, while those injured have been taken to nearby hospitals.

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We condemn the attack as barbaric and urge the state and federal governments to urgently strengthen security around vulnerable communities in Mangu and other parts of Plateau State.