Tragedy in Plateau: Nine Killed, Homes Razed in Wereng Camp Night Attack

Plateau killing: In yet another tragic episode of violence, at least nine individuals were killed during a brutal attack by armed gunmen on Wereng Camp community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on Wednesday night. The latest assault, part of a disturbing trend of ongoing violence in the region, has left the community devastated, with numerous homes burnt and several residents injured.

According to local reports, the heavily armed assailants stormed the community at about 9:00 p.m., a time when most residents were already asleep. The attackers fired gunshots into the air, sending waves of panic through the peaceful settlement and causing people to flee in fear. Survivors described the harrowing moments when gunmen moved from house to house, killing indiscriminately and setting buildings ablaze.

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“Riyom Ravaged: Residents Recall Night of Terror”

Eyewitnesses and community sources stated that the attack lasted more than two hours, during which the attackers, believed to be part of the notorious Fulani militia, systematically executed their mission of destruction. The victims, mostly children and elderly individuals who couldn’t flee fast enough, were left behind in the carnage.

This horrifying event is not isolated. It marks a continuation of the protracted violence that has plagued not only Riyom but also nearby local government areas such as Bokkos, Wase, and Barkin-Ladi. These areas have been repeatedly targeted by suspected Fulani militias, who have left behind a trail of bloodshed, burnt homes, and stolen properties. Community leaders have described these acts as coordinated efforts aimed at displacing indigenous populations.

A community source told Vanguard that the Wereng Camp attack began without warning and was so well-coordinated that even those attempting to defend the village were swiftly overpowered by the superior firepower of the assailants. “It was like a war zone. They shot at anyone they saw, and then they set everything on fire. We lost everything,” the source lamented.

Beyond the loss of life and property, the attackers reportedly looted food supplies, further compounding the hardships of displaced villagers. In the wake of the assault, many survivors have fled the area, seeking refuge in nearby communities and displacement camps. The fear of renewed attacks hangs heavily over the region.

Solomon Mwantiri, National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), confirmed the attack and called on authorities to take urgent and decisive action to halt the rising tide of violence. “Our people cannot continue to live in fear. We need protection, justice, and lasting peace,” he said.

“Operation Safe Haven Steps In: Dialogue as a Path to Peace”

In response to the latest violence, the Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, convened an emergency meeting with stakeholders from both the affected communities and surrounding areas. Recognizing the growing tension and mistrust between herders and farmers, the military leader stressed the importance of finding sustainable, community-led solutions to the crisis.

General Oyinlola met with both farmer and herder representatives to discuss recent incidents of farmland destruction and cattle rustling—issues he believes are central to the ongoing conflict. He warned that such provocations only serve to deepen mistrust and ignite further violence.

“The only way forward is through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect,” said Oyinlola. He emphasized that traditional, religious, and community leaders must play a pivotal role in peacebuilding efforts. According to him, the use of violence can never resolve the underlying issues, and cooperation across all segments of society is key to ensuring lasting peace in Plateau State.

Local observers have welcomed this call for unity, though many remain skeptical about its long-term impact, citing previous failed attempts at brokering peace. The continued pattern of unpunished violence and government inaction has left many in Plateau State feeling abandoned.

As Wereng Camp mourns its dead and begins the painful process of rebuilding, community members and rights groups are urging both state and federal governments to take immediate steps to protect vulnerable populations and hold perpetrators accountable. With the security architecture under scrutiny, the urgent question remains: how many more lives must be lost before real action is taken?