Fresh attack in the dead of night on Monday, Bindi village in Plateau State’s Ta-Hoss District became the scene of a devastating attack that left at least 20 people dead. The assault, carried out by gunmen, also wounded many residents and has sparked renewed fears of ongoing violence in the plateau communities.

Eyewitnesses describe a terrifying scene: the attackers struck while villagers were sleeping, launching a coordinated house-to-house assault. Women, children, and the elderly were among the victims, with many unable to escape in time. The brutality of the attack has shocked the entire region, with survivors painting a picture of armed men who came with a clear intent to terrorise.

Senator Pam Dachungyang, representing Plateau North, condemned the violence and described the situation as a “war-like crisis.” In a statement, he highlighted that these recent attacks — including previous incidents in Jol and Rim villages — seem to be part of a calculated effort to terrorise and displace farming communities that are vital to the local economy and food security.

“The ongoing cycle of unprovoked violence is a national shame,” Senator Dachungyang said. “Bindi and other villages are primarily farming communities. The continued attacks are not only destroying lives but are also threatening our food supply and livelihoods.”

The senator also revealed he has contacted the leadership of Nigeria’s National Assembly to push for a more coordinated military response to dislodge the armed elements behind these attacks. He called for an urgent review and strengthening of security efforts, especially the operations of the Special Task Force tasked with maintaining peace in the area.

The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), Riyom Chapter, has also spoken out strongly against the violence. In a joint statement, Chairman Gideon Manjal and Publicity Secretary Gadu Dong criticised what they see as negligence by authorities, despite the presence of security forces and military assets in the region.

“The identities and hideouts of these attackers are known, yet no meaningful action has been taken,” COPDEM said. They condemned the repeated attacks in communities like Ta-Hoss, Jol, Rim, and Bachi, accusing both state and federal governments of failing to protect innocent lives.

The group has called on President Bola Tinubu and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang to authorise a full-scale military operation to clear out “terrorist elements” terrorising the region. In addition, they urged the government to urgently provide humanitarian aid, trauma counselling, and reconstruction support for those affected by the violence.

As the community mourns and seeks answers, the need for swift and decisive action is clear. The violence in Plateau State highlights the ongoing challenges of security and protection for Nigeria’s rural populations, and it underscores the importance of accountability and effective intervention to restore peace and safety.