Suspected Fulani militia gunmen have taken the lives of eight individuals, including two children, in Adu village within the Kwall District of Bassa Local Government Area in Plateau State.
The attack occurred around 9 p.m. on Sunday, October 1, 2023, catching the residents off guard as most had already retired to their homes.
Davidson Malison, the National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), verified the incident in a statement on Monday, describing it as a tragic continuation of the loss of lives and property in the state.
He explained, “The gunmen infiltrated the community at around 8:10 p.m., strategically positioned themselves, and unleashed a barrage of bullets upon innocent people while they were sleeping.”
“The heinous act unfolded within minutes, resulting in the deaths of approximately eight people and injuries to five others, who are now receiving treatment in hospitals.”
Malison expressed the deep sorrow of the Rigwe Nation over this unfortunate incident, emphasizing how peaceful and welcoming the Rigwe people have historically been.
Danjuma Avu, who lost two of his children and six relatives in the attack, shared his account of the tragic event, revealing that the assailants initially fired upon those gathered at the mini-market square. They then entered a building, where they shot his children who were receiving medical treatment, as well as two others.
The deceased, comprising five males, one female, and two minors, have been laid to rest at the village cemetery, while the injured are currently under medical care in local hospitals.
