The communities of Bwai and Chisu in Mangu local government area of Plateau State have been subjected to a brutal invasion, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 14 people.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that late on Tuesday night, the assailants launched a surprise attack while residents were asleep, setting homes ablaze and leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
Bamshak Ishaya, a concerned citizen, recounted the harrowing events, stating, “Fulani militias ruthlessly killed several individuals at the residence of a Community Leader in the Chisu village on Tuesday night, around 11:00 pm. Additionally, the COCIN RCC Church in Bwai, situated along the Mangu-Bokkos road, was targeted and set ablaze, along with numerous houses, vehicles, and tricycles. Frightened residents of the Chisu community, upon hearing sporadic gunshots, sought refuge at their community leader’s house. Tragically, the attackers set the house on fire, resulting in the discovery of 11 charred bodies this morning. The search for more victims is ongoing.”
The Interim Management Committee Chairman of Mangu LGA, Mr. Markus Artu, acknowledged the incident while stating his lack of specific details.
Mr. Artu stated, “I am currently piecing together the information surrounding this tragic event. I am personally conducting an on-the-spot assessment to gather accurate details. Conflicting reports have emerged; security agencies claim there was an attempted attack that they successfully repelled. However, other sources provide differing accounts. I have been informed that the assailants tried to burn down the church but were met with resistance. At this point, I cannot provide concrete facts, as the information I have is speculative. Rest assured, once I have verified details, I will make them available to you.”
Corroborating the incident, Mr. Bala Fwangje, the Member representing Mangu South Constituency in the State Assembly, lamented the tragic events but admitted to not having full knowledge of the extent of the attack.
Mr. Fwangje stated, “Late last night, around 11 pm, we received distressing news that Fulani herdsmen had invaded Chisu and Bwai. This morning, we were devastated to learn that approximately 14 people lost their lives, numerous houses were destroyed, and properties were burned. However, I am still awaiting comprehensive information regarding the incident.”
This newspaper learnt that efforts to obtain an official statement from the State Police Command were unsuccessful.
