Tension arose in Gako village, located in the Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, following an attack by gunmen on Sunday night. The assault resulted in the tragic deaths of a pastor and three members of his family.
The victims have been identified as Rev. Ayuba Choji, his wife Chundung Ayuba, and their two children, Cyril and Endurance.
According to residents, the attackers entered the village around 11 p.m., firing their weapons indiscriminately and creating a state of panic among the community members.
Martha Dalyop, a local resident, expressed her concerns to Vanguard, detailing the late-night invasion that forced many villagers to seek safety. She highlighted the frequent occurrence of such attacks, which have left residents living in a state of constant fear.
According to her, the situation has made it difficult for residents to sleep in their homes or engage in farming activities.
Confirming the incident, the publicity secretary of the Berom Youths Moulder Association, Rwang Tengwong, said the pattern of attacks was evolving.
He explained that the assailants now target not only communities but also relaxation spots, farming areas and local vigilantes.
Tengwong further disclosed that the attackers often operate in groups, with some attacking residents while others destroy farmlands or block escape routes.
He added that within the past 48 hours, large portions of farmland in Kassa, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, had been destroyed.
The affected farms reportedly include cabbage, pepper and maize, worsening the hardship faced by farmers.
