Plateau State has once again been shaken by violent attacks as gunmen reportedly killed three people and injured four others during an armed incursion in Riyom community, located in Riyom Local Government Area.
The attacks have heightened fears among residents, who continue to endure recurring bouts of banditry and terrorism in the region.
The deceased have been identified as Stephen Maigadi, 57; Josiah Dachollom, 32; and Davou Sunday. The four individuals injured in the attack include Silvester Joshua, 23; Samson Musa, 25; Joshua Daniel, and Jonathan Yakubu. Their current medical conditions remain uncertain, as access to affected areas is limited due to security concerns.
In a statement, Barrister Dalyop Solomon, President of the Berom Youths Moulder Association (BYM), described the attack as a continuation of a troubling pattern of violence in Riyom.
He stated: “We note with grave concern the recurring attacks, banditry, and other forms of terrorism inflicted on Gwon village of Rim Community, Riyom LGA, at about 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, 13th August 2025, by three groups of armed foot soldiers. This violent attack resulted in the tragic death of three unsuspecting inhabitants.”
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the attackers had made repeated attempts to enter Gwon village over the past three days but were unsuccessful. The invasion was only achieved this morning, shortly after residents had finished their Christian morning devotions, underscoring the premeditated nature of the assault.
While the community was still grieving the loss in Gwon village, the same group of assailants reportedly launched a second attack in the evening at Rinyan village of Tahoss Community, also in Riyom LGA.
This second incursion occurred at approximately 6:46 p.m. and was met with swift resistance from security operatives from Sector 6 of Operation Safe Haven. Reinforced by personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, the combined forces successfully repelled the attackers.
“At the time of issuing this statement, communication within Rinyan village is severely disrupted. Mobile phones of residents are inaccessible, making it difficult to assess the full impact of the evening attack,” Solomon added.
The Berom Youths Moulder Association commended the prompt intervention by the Operation Safe Haven operatives and Nigerian Police Force, noting that such coordinated responses provide confidence that joint efforts can significantly enhance security in the region.
Despite the successes of the security agencies, Solomon stressed that urgent government action is required to prevent future attacks. He urged the Federal and Plateau State governments to designate Bangai Fulani and other high-risk areas as official “Terrorist Enclaves.” Such a declaration, he argued, would allow for targeted security measures that could restore peace and stability in Berom land and the wider Plateau State.
The statement concluded with a call to residents, especially vigilante groups and local security outfits, to remain steadfast, vigilant, and collaborative with conventional security agencies. Solomon emphasized that community cooperation with formal security forces remains crucial to safeguarding lives and property against armed attacks.