20 killed in renewed attack in Plateau communities

No fewer than 20 people have been killed in attacks carried out in the early hours of Sunday in Zakupwang community, Foron District and Fan village in Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government council of Plateau State.
The attack as usual residents alleged was carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen between the hours of 12am to 1am and 13 people were killed but three others who sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital died later.
It would be recalled that the State Governor, Simon Lalong had set up a 14-man committee, seven each from the Berom and Fulani communities, to reconcile their differences and find lasting peace in the areas and the Committee’s work is ongoing.
Neither the Operation Safe Haven nor Police could be reached for confirmation but the Member representing, Riyom/Barkin Ladi federal constituency in the National Assembly, Istifanus Gyang who confirmed the incidence also condemned it.
According to him “We have received with shock the killings of 17 persons through violent attacks on seven villages of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area.
“The renewed attacks are least expected at a time when concerted peace efforts and dialogue meetings are on-going between Berom and Fulani stakeholders.”
He appealed to the Berom and Fulani stakeholders not to allow the unfortunate incidence defeat the on-going peace efforts stressing that to do so will be of victory to those who do not want peace and have made blood letting their vocation and daily delight.
He added that despite the setback, he remains committed to “ensuring that Barkin-Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency is re-branded from an axis of violence and bloodshed to one of peace and prosperity.”