A fresh wave of violence struck Gako Village in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday night, as gunmen launched a deadly attack that claimed the lives of a pastor and three members of his family. The victims were identified as Reverend Ayuba Choji, his wife Chundung Ayuba, and their two children, Cyril and Endurance Ayuba. The attack occurred around 11 p.m., when armed men stormed the village and opened fire indiscriminately, leaving residents in panic and scrambling for safety.
Community member Martha Dalyop, speaking to Vanguard, described the chaos that unfolded as the gunmen moved through the village, shooting sporadically and forcing families to flee their homes. She expressed deep concern over the growing fear among villagers, noting that many now live in constant anxiety, unable to sleep peacefully or go to their farms without fear of attack. The recurring nature of these assaults has severely disrupted daily life in the area, undermining both security and economic activities.
Rwang Tengwong, publicity secretary of the Berom Youths Moulder Association, confirmed the incident and highlighted a troubling pattern in the tactics used by the assailants. He stated that the attackers are now deliberately targeting relaxation spots, farming communities, and local vigilante groups that protect rural settlements. According to Tengwong, the gunmen often divide into multiple groups during operations—some attack residents, others destroy farmlands, while a third group blocks roads or conducts surveillance to prevent escape or intervention.
The destruction of farmlands has been particularly devastating. In the past 48 hours, a large expanse of farmland in Kassa, located in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, was razed by gunmen. Crops such as cabbage, hot pepper, and maize were destroyed, further worsening the hardship faced by farmers already struggling with insecurity. This pattern of targeting agricultural areas not only threatens food security but also deepens poverty in already vulnerable communities.
The attack on Reverend Choji and his family adds to the growing list of violent incidents in Plateau State, where armed groups have increasingly targeted civilians, religious leaders, and agricultural zones. The lack of effective response from security agencies has left many communities feeling abandoned and exposed. As the government continues to grapple with the security situation, residents are calling for urgent intervention to restore peace and protect lives and livelihoods.
The tragic loss of the Choji family underscores the urgent need for stronger security measures and community protection strategies in Plateau State. With attacks becoming more frequent and coordinated, the future of rural communities hangs in the balance, and immediate action is required to prevent further bloodshed.
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