No fewer than five people, including children, have been confirmed dead after gunmen attacked Nche Shwye Rishi community in Plateau State.
The attack, which happened on Thursday night in Bassa Local Government Area, also left three others with serious injuries. Residents said the incident caused widespread fear, as many families fled their homes for safety.
Community leaders described the situation as troubling and called on security agencies to step in quickly to prevent further violence.
They warned that without urgent action, the crisis could escalate and lead to a breakdown of law and order in the area.
Our correspondent gathered that the gunmen stormed the community and started shooting sporadically at around 10 pm.
A youth leader and former secretary general of the Irigwe Development Association, Danjuma Auta, confirmed the sad development to newsmen.
According to him, the injured victims have been rushed to a medical facility for treatment, even as he urged residents to remain calm but vigilant.
“We call on security agencies to intensify efforts in safeguarding lives and property in our communities. We also urge our people to be watchful and report any suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities,” the statement read.
The attack is the latest in a series of security challenges bedevilling communities in parts of Plateau State, raising fresh concerns among stakeholders over the recurring violence in the area.
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Command for official confirmation were abortive.
