A violent attack on several communities in the Manguna District of Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State, has left at least 40 people dead and displaced over 1,000 residents.
The assault, which took place on Wednesday, April 2, targeted Hurti and surrounding villages, including Josho and Daffo. The attack was carried out in broad daylight, around 3:00 p.m., when armed individuals reportedly arrived on motorcycles and launched what has been described as a well-organized attack on the communities.
During a visit to the area on Sunday, the village head of Hurti, Mr. Maren Aradong, revealed the devastating toll of the violence. “In Hurti alone, these gunmen killed more than 40 people and displaced about 1,000 persons,” Aradong said. “They also burnt 383 houses, destroyed foodstuff, and looted other items.”
The Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Samuel Jatau, led a government team to assess the destruction. Speaking during the visit, Jatau noted the severity of the situation and the pain the communities are currently enduring. “We are here to see the situation for ourselves and assess the level of destruction,” he said. “It is heartbreaking that in this day and age, people can be attacked and killed so callously.”
The State Government has delivered emergency relief items to those affected, including food, bedding, and basic supplies such as rice, maize, noodles, blankets, and soap. Jatau said these materials are only the first step, and more support will follow.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has reacted to the incident, calling it “a coordinated crime sponsored by conflict merchants.” He insisted this was not a case of farmer-herder conflict, a narrative often used to describe violence in the region.
Retired Brigadier General Gagji Shipi, who coordinates Operation Rainbow, a state security outfit, also confirmed the attack and noted it was a major blow to the peace-building efforts in Plateau State. He assured that more actions are being planned to prevent future occurrences.
