Kwahaslalek and its surrounding communities in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State were plunged into chaos as gunmen defied the 24-hour curfew imposed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The assailants stormed the area, leaving over 30 people dead and numerous houses and worship centres destroyed.
This brutal attack occurred despite the curfew imposed on Tuesday, with only essential workers allowed to move within the local government.
Sabon Layi Area Worst Affected; Soldiers Accused of Aiding Carnage
The Sabon Layi area bore the brunt of the violence, witnessing widespread destruction of houses, worship centres, and business premises. Disturbingly, citizens have accused soldiers of aiding the carnage, pointing fingers at alleged complicity.
Survivors recount a horrifying night, describing how the attackers targeted vulnerable populations, predominantly women and children.
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) permanent orientation camp at Jakatai, Mangu LGA, adds another layer of tragedy to the unfolding situation.
Decoy in Mangu Town; Kwahaslalek Community Targeted
Hosea Ibrahim, a survivor, disclosed that the skirmish in Mangu town served as a decoy for the attackers to focus on the vulnerable Kwahaslalek community.
The midnight assault left more than 30 people dead, with houses burnt and some individuals sustaining gunshot wounds.
The assailants reportedly targeted a community leader’s house where victims sought refuge, leaving Mairana, Kinat, and other communities in Mangu Halle District deserted.
Alleged Complicity of Security Personnel; Calls for Urgent Action
Anonymous security personnel have acknowledged the alleged complicity of some colleagues, with claims that they were unable to intervene due to superior firepower.
Concerns about bias among security forces have surfaced, prompting a demand for their withdrawal and replacement with Mobile Police (MOPOLS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The Initiative for a Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) convener, Prophet Isa El-Buba, urgently calls for action against the escalating insecurity.
Community Outcry and Accusations
The Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA), representing the major tribe in Mangu LGA, expressed dissatisfaction with the role played by some security personnel during the unrest.
Lawrence Kyarshik, MDA’s Director of Public Affairs, accuses the military of complacency and calls for a complete withdrawal, citing suspicious actions that suggest a biased stance.
The association points out that security alerts had predicted pending attacks, raising questions about the effectiveness of the imposed curfew.
Plateau Youth Council (PYC) Calls for Security Strategy Review
The Plateau Youth Council (PYC) joins the chorus of disapproval, highlighting the lack of efficient response from the military in Mangu LGA.
Dapip Stanley, PYC Mangu LGA Chairman, emphasizes the need for a review of the security strategy to address the escalating crisis and restore confidence among the populace.
The council condemns the brutality towards residents and the failure of security personnel to intervene effectively.
JNI Condemns Violence; Calls for Stakeholder Collaboration
The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in the state condemns the resurgence of violence in Mangu town. He calls on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts in securing lives and properties.
Salim Umar, JNI Secretary in the state, emphasizes the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to restore peace and order in Mangu LGA and other affected communities.
Governor Mutfwang Declares 24-Hour Curfew
In response to the deteriorating security situation, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has declared a 24-hour curfew in Mangu local government area.
Essential workers are the only individuals permitted to move within the local government until further notice.
The decision comes after armed men attacked communities, leading to casualties and property destruction.
Urgent Need for Comprehensive Security Measures
As Mangu LGA grapples with the aftermath of the brutal attacks, there is a pressing need for comprehensive security measures.
The alleged complicity of some security personnel and the failure to effectively implement the curfew raise serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the residents.
Urgent action is required to restore peace, investigate the allegations, and prevent further loss of lives and property in the region.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
