In a heartbreaking incident that has left the community in mourning, a family of three was brutally killed by suspected terrorists in Lighitlubang village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attack, which occurred in the dead of night on Friday, January 31, 2025, also claimed the lives of another husband and wife, bringing the total number of victims to five.
The victims, who were asleep when the assailants struck, were slaughtered in their home, sending shockwaves through the village and reigniting fears of escalating violence in the region. This tragic event is the latest in a series of attacks blamed on terrorist groups operating in Plateau State, raising concerns about the safety and security of residents.
Eyewitness Account: A Night of Horror
Moses Bankat, a resident of Lighitlubang village, confirmed the incident to FRONTPAGE. He described the attack as sudden and brutal, with the terrorists targeting innocent families in their homes.
“It happened at about midnight on January 31, 2025. Some suspected Fulani terrorists entered Lighitlubang village in Bungha District of Mangu Local Government and killed a family of five—a man, his wife, and child—along with another man and his wife. They were all slaughtered,” Bankat said.
The attack has left the community in a state of fear and anxiety, with many residents worried about their safety. The village, once a peaceful haven, is now grappling with the trauma of losing loved ones in such a violent manner.
Plateau State: A Region Under Siege
Plateau State has long been a hotspot for violent clashes between farmers and herders, as well as attacks by suspected terrorist groups. The state’s diverse ethnic and religious makeup has often made it a target for violence, with communities frequently caught in the crossfire.
The latest attack in Lighitlubang village is a grim reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing the region. Despite efforts by security agencies to curb the violence, attacks continue to occur, leaving many residents feeling vulnerable and unprotected.
Police Response and Investigation
In the wake of the attack, the Plateau State Police Command has deployed security agents to the affected community to maintain peace and order. Alabo Alfred, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state, confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway.
“I will get details from the DPO when they return from the bush because they have gone there,” Alfred said.
The police have assured residents that they are working tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. However, many in the community remain skeptical, citing previous attacks that have gone unpunished.
Community Calls for Action
The attack has sparked outrage among residents, who are calling on the government to take decisive action to protect their lives and property. Many have expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of adequate security measures in the region.
“We are tired of living in fear. Every day, we hear about attacks in one village or another. When will this end?” asked one resident, who chose to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals.
Community leaders have also called for increased security presence in the area, as well as measures to address the root causes of the violence. They argue that without a comprehensive approach to tackling the issue, the cycle of violence will continue.
The Human Cost of Insecurity
The attack in Lighitlubang village is a stark reminder of the human cost of insecurity. The victims, who were simply trying to live their lives in peace, were brutally taken from their loved ones. Their deaths have left a void in the community, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss.
For the families of the victims, the pain is unimaginable. They are left to pick up the pieces and mourn their loved ones, all while grappling with the fear that they too could be targeted in future attacks.
A Call for Unity and Resilience
In the face of such tragedy, the community has come together to support one another. Vigils and prayer sessions have been held to honor the victims and provide comfort to their families. Many have also called for unity and resilience, urging residents to stand together in the face of adversity.
“We cannot let fear divide us. We must stand together and support one another during this difficult time,” said a community leader.
The Way Forward: Addressing the Root Causes
While the immediate focus is on providing security and justice for the victims, many believe that long-term solutions are needed to address the root causes of the violence. This includes addressing issues such as land disputes, poverty, and lack of education, which have been identified as contributing factors to the conflict.
Experts have also called for a more proactive approach to intelligence gathering and security operations, as well as greater collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
Conclusion
The attack in Lighitlubang village is a tragic reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing Plateau State. As the community mourns the loss of their loved ones, there is a growing sense of urgency to address the root causes of the violence and ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
For now, the residents of Lighitlubang village are left to grapple with the trauma of the attack and the uncertainty of what the future holds. But amidst the pain and fear, there is also a glimmer of hope—a hope that through unity, resilience, and decisive action, peace can be restored to the region.
