By: Zagazola Makama
A community leader in Plateau State has called on the state government and security agencies to take decisive action against the cycle of targeted attacks and reprisals following the killing of a Fulani boy and the subsequent death of two female miners in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The call came after a Fulani boy was reportedly attacked and killed by suspected Plateau militia members in what was described as a targeted attack, this followed hours later by the shooting of three female civilian miners at an illegal mining site in Rakum community by the fulani militia.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that two of the female miners were killed at the scene, while a third sustained gunshot wounds and was evacuated to the General Hospital, Barkin Ladi, for treatment.
The sources said troops of Operation Enduring Peace subsequently engaged suspected assailants at Rungan Jallo, killing one suspected militia member and recovering two motorcycles.
Reacting to the development, the community leader condemned the continued attacks and called on the Plateau State Government, the Commissioner of Police and other security authorities to act before the situation deteriorates further.
“You are watching people being killed and harmed. Wallahi, this is enough,” he said.
He appealed directly to the state government, saying: “Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, take action. The Commissioner of Police in Plateau State and all the security authorities must take action.”
According to him, the violence should not be allowed to become a cycle in which an attack on one community is followed by retaliation against another.
“This is not about tribe or religion. You promised to protect the people and respect them. You must ensure that people are protected,” he said.
He further urged authorities to investigate every killing and ensure that perpetrators were brought before the courts.
“When you find someone who has committed a crime, deal with that person according to the law. But if the situation continues to deteriorate, where will people go?” he asked.
The latest incidents have again highlighted the dangers of retaliatory violence in parts of Plateau, where attacks against individuals and communities can quickly trigger further violence.
The community leader therefore urged the authorities to pursue justice without discrimination and strengthen security in vulnerable communities.
“Do justice and uphold the truth. Protect the people. Plateau needs peace, but peace cannot be achieved when people are killed and those responsible are allowed to escape justice,” he said.
