Residents of Uwok-Ishe community in Kakkek District of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, were thrown into confusion and mourning over the weekend after four people were killed in a deadly ambush. Among the victims were two farmers and two herders, while two others were severely injured and are now receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).
The incident occurred on Saturday evening around 7 pm. According to local sources, the victims were on their way to mining sites when they were suddenly attacked by unknown gunmen. The motive behind the ambush remains unclear, but the area has a history of ethnic and communal tensions.
“When we heard gunshots, we quickly mobilized with some members of the Rukuba (Bache) ethnic group to find out what happened,” a resident told our correspondent. “By the time we arrived, four people had already died. Two others were alive but in very bad shape. We rushed them to JUTH for urgent medical attention.”
This latest incident has sparked renewed fears among locals, many of whom are puzzled over who could have carried out the attack. Uwok-Ishe is part of the broader Miango district, an area that has seen frequent clashes between the Irigwe and Fulani communities in the past. However, local leaders say the immediate community, including the Fulani and Rukuba ethnic groups, have recently enjoyed peaceful coexistence.
Abdullahi, a community leader, confirmed that both Fulani and Rukuba residents often work together in local businesses such as mining and farming. “There has been peace among us in recent times. That’s why this attack is shocking,” he said.
Dauda Aku, Youth President of the Bache (Rukuba) ethnic group, also confirmed the attack and described it as devastating. He explained that he received a distress call around 9 pm on Saturday, informing him of the killings.
“Two of our members were killed, and one is currently in the hospital. Among the victims were also three Fulani individuals—two died, and one survived with injuries,” he said. “These people were just looking for a way to earn a living. It’s very painful.”
Mr. Aku also raised concerns about the persistent insecurity in the region. “This is not the first time people are being killed here. It keeps happening, and nothing is being done about it. We are tired of burying our loved ones,” he lamented.
Our correspondent gathered that attacks and killings have become an almost daily occurrence in Bassa and other parts of Plateau State. Many residents have been displaced, and properties worth millions of naira have been destroyed over time. The state government and security agencies have been repeatedly called upon to intervene and bring lasting peace to the region.
For now, the identity of the attackers remains unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility. Meanwhile, community members are urging authorities to carry out a thorough investigation and ensure those behind the killings are brought to justice.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from the Plateau State Police Command regarding the incident.
