Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has confirmed that security agencies have arrested some suspects in connection with the recent deadly attack on Akunza-Ashige community in Lafia Local Government Area of the state. He also assured residents that efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects who are still on the run.
The governor made this known during a bi-monthly press conference held in Lafia, the state capital. The briefing followed widespread concern and public outrage over the violent attack, which occurred during a traditional wedding ceremony in the community.
Governor Sule spoke through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Mr. Peter Ahemba, who addressed journalists on the steps taken by the government and security agencies since the incident.
The attack occurred in the early hours of December 31, 2025, when armed men, said to be wearing masks, invaded the Akunza-Ashige community. According to reports, the attackers struck while residents were gathered for a traditional wedding celebration.
During the attack, at least three people were killed, while several others sustained serious injuries. The incident threw the community into panic, forcing many residents to flee their homes for safety.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as sudden and brutal, saying the attackers arrived unexpectedly and opened fire before fleeing the area. The identities and motive of the attackers were initially unclear, raising fears among residents and nearby communities.
According to Ahemba, the Nasarawa State Government responded swiftly after receiving information about the attack.
“When news of the unfortunate incident reached the government, the governor immediately mobilised security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, to the scene,” he said.
He explained that security personnel were quickly deployed to the community to restore calm and prevent further violence. Their presence, he said, helped to bring the situation under control.
“Security personnel took charge of the situation, normalcy has been restored, arrests have been made, and more suspects are still being hunted,” Ahemba added.
He assured residents that the state government is working closely with the police and other security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attack are identified and prosecuted.
The governor’s aide stated that while some suspects have already been arrested, security agencies are still carrying out operations to track down others involved in the attack.
He said the government has strengthened security arrangements not only in Akunza-Ashige but also in other parts of the state to prevent similar incidents.
According to him, patrols have been increased, intelligence gathering has been intensified, and security agencies have been placed on high alert.
Ahemba stressed that the government would not allow criminal elements to disrupt peace in the state, adding that justice would be served.
“The government has put measures in place to ensure lasting peace in the affected community and across Nasarawa State,” he said. “Those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice.”
The attack has caused fear and anger among residents of Akunza-Ashige and surrounding communities. Many people expressed shock that such violence could occur during a cultural celebration meant to bring joy and unity.
Community leaders and residents have called on the government to ensure justice for the victims and provide adequate security to prevent future attacks.
Some residents also urged the authorities to address the root causes of violence in rural communities, including youth unemployment, criminal activities, and disputes over land and resources.
Civil society groups in the state have also condemned the attack and appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
Nasarawa State, located in Nigeria’s North Central region, has faced several security challenges over the years. These include communal clashes, armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks linked to criminal gangs.
The state’s diverse ethnic and religious composition has sometimes led to tensions, especially in rural areas. However, the government has repeatedly said it is committed to maintaining peace and promoting unity among the people.
Governor Sule, who has been in office since 2019, has often emphasized dialogue, security cooperation, and development as key tools for addressing insecurity in the state.
Beyond the security situation, Ahemba also spoke on political developments in the state, particularly the ongoing debate over the zoning of the governorship seat.
Zoning is a political arrangement in which key positions are rotated among different zones or senatorial districts to promote fairness and inclusion.
In Nasarawa State, the debate centers on whether the governorship position should be zoned to the southern, northern, or western senatorial district ahead of future elections.
According to Ahemba, Governor Sule has been consulting widely with political leaders, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders on the issue.
“The governor is consulting, and stakeholders are also consulting in the overall interest of Nasarawa State,” he said.
He made it clear that no final decision has been taken yet, adding that the ruling party would announce its position when consultations are completed.
“No final decision has been reached on whether the governorship should be zoned to the southern, northern, or western senatorial district,” Ahemba added.
The state government used the opportunity to call on residents to remain peaceful and support security agencies in their efforts to maintain law and order.
Ahemba urged communities to avoid spreading rumors or taking the law into their own hands, stressing that such actions could worsen the situation.
He also encouraged residents to report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest security agency.
As investigations continue and the manhunt for remaining suspects intensifies, many residents hope the arrests will bring justice and deter future attacks.
The government has assured the public that it remains committed to protecting lives and property across Nasarawa State.
For the people of Akunza-Ashige, the focus now is on healing, rebuilding trust, and ensuring that their community returns fully to normal life after the tragic incident.
