Fear and tension have gripped residents of Plateau State following another deadly attack by gunmen, who killed a pastor and three members of his family in Gako Village, located in Riyom Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred late on Sunday night, has once again highlighted the worsening security situation in parts of the state, especially in rural communities where attacks have become frequent.
The victims were identified as Reverend Ayuba Choji, his wife, Chundung Ayuba, and their two children, Cyril Ayuba and Endurance Ayuba. Their deaths have left the small farming community in shock and mourning.
According to local sources, the gunmen invaded Gako Village at about 11 p.m., firing shots indiscriminately. Residents said the sound of gunfire sent people running for safety, with many abandoning their homes in fear.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers operated for several minutes without resistance. “They came late in the night and started shooting everywhere. People were running into the bush to save their lives. Nobody could come out,” the source said.
The latest killings are part of a pattern of recurring violence in several parts of Plateau State, where communities have faced repeated attacks over the years. These incidents have often led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
Many villagers say they now live in constant fear, unable to sleep peacefully or go about their daily activities. Farming, which is the main source of livelihood in the area, has also been badly affected.
Confirming the incident, the publicity secretary of the Berom Youths Moulder Association, Rwang Tengwong, said the attack reflects a growing change in the tactics of the assailants.
He explained that the gunmen now target not only homes but also places where people gather, as well as local vigilante groups that try to protect communities.
“These attackers have become more organised. They split themselves into groups during operations. While some attack residents, others destroy farmlands, and another group blocks roads or monitors movements to prevent people from escaping or getting help,” Tengwong said.
He added that the violence is no longer limited to isolated incidents but has spread across several communities, creating widespread fear.
In a related development, Tengwong revealed that farmlands in Kassa, located in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, had also been destroyed by gunmen within the past 48 hours.
According to him, crops such as cabbage, hot pepper, and maize were destroyed, dealing a heavy blow to farmers who depend on their harvest for survival.
The destruction of farmland has worsened the hardship faced by residents, many of whom are already struggling due to insecurity and economic challenges.
Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, has experienced cycles of violence for many years. While the causes of the conflict are complex, they are often linked to disputes over land, farming, and grazing, as well as ethnic and religious tensions.
Despite efforts by security agencies to restore peace, many communities continue to report attacks, especially in remote areas where security presence is limited.
Residents have repeatedly called on the government to take stronger action to protect lives and property. Some have also urged authorities to improve intelligence gathering and increase patrols in vulnerable areas.
For families affected by the violence, the pain is deep. The killing of Reverend Choji and his family has not only left a gap in the community but also raised fresh concerns about the safety of religious leaders and their households.
Community members say the pastor was well known and respected, making his death even more difficult to accept.
As news of the attack spread, many residents expressed frustration over what they described as a lack of adequate protection.
“We are tired of running. We cannot sleep in our homes. We cannot go to our farms. Something must be done,” another resident said.
The latest attack adds to the growing list of violent incidents in Plateau State, reinforcing fears that the situation may continue to worsen if urgent steps are not taken.
For now, many residents of Gako Village and surrounding areas remain on edge, uncertain about what the next night may bring.