Terrorists unleashed a wave of horror in Plateau state, Nigeria, during the Christmas period, resulting in the brutal massacre of 160 people. The attackers targeted predominantly Christian areas, including villages in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu counties, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The victims, many of whom were preparing for church Christmas programs, included church pastors and innocent civilians.
Table of Contents
A Grim Christmas Reality
Church pastors, like the Rev. Solomon Gushe of Baptist Church in Dares village, fell victim to the assailants. The attackers, numbering in the hundreds, struck as Christians were gearing up for Christmas celebrations organized by their pastors. The tragic toll included women, children, and the elderly who were unable to escape the onslaught.
Villages Ravaged
The coordinated attacks targeted several predominantly Christian villages, including NTV, Maiyanga, Ruku, Hurum, Darwat, Dares, and many others. In Maiyanga village alone, notable individuals such as Sati Solomon Langweng and David Jallang were among those killed.
Official Confirms Attacks
Local officials confirmed the attacks, reporting at least 160 people slain. Monday Kassah, head of the local government in Bokkos, described the assaults as “well-coordinated,” with over 300 wounded individuals rushed to hospitals in Bokkos, Jos, and Barkin Ladi.
Nigeria’s Government Response
Plateau Gov. Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attacks, declaring that at least 50 persons had been killed in Mangu and Bokkos counties within the prior 48 hours. He vowed to strengthen security agencies to address the escalating insecurity in the state.
Identifying the Assailants
The assailants, locally referred to as “bandits,” are a mix of criminal elements, including Fulani herders facing challenges due to drought and diminishing land for their cattle. Some of these attackers are believed to be mercenaries from Chad or Niger, well-armed with sophisticated weapons.
International Outcry
Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violence against Christians, with various groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, contributing to the rising insecurity. In 2022, Nigeria led the world in Christians killed for their faith, according to Open Doors’ World Watch List.
Calls for Justice
As the nation grapples with this tragedy, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the arrest of the attackers. However, criticism has arisen, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) slamming Tinubu for what they describe as a lack of empathy and leadership in the face of the genocide. The PDP insists on an International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into the massacre.
The heart-wrenching events in Plateau state underscore the urgent need for collective efforts to address the root causes of religious violence and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.