Armed groups have launched fresh attacks in Plateau, Borno, and Benue States, leaving several people dead and communities in fear.
In Plateau State, gunmen killed a farmer identified as Ishaku Abalis in Panyam District, Mangu Local Government Area. Reports say the attackers beheaded him and made away with his head.
The National President of the Mwaghavul Development Association, Bulus Dabit, confirmed the incident, lamenting the frequent attacks and kidnappings in Panyam and Pushit Districts. He renewed the call for the establishment of state police, stressing that community-based security would complement federal forces in protecting residents.
According to Dabit, the local security structures and police authorities in Mangu are aware of the worsening situation. He urged for stronger security deployment to reassure citizens and deter further attacks.
Efforts to get reactions from the military’s Operation Enduring Peace and the Plateau Police Command were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
Boko Haram Attack in Borno
In a separate incident, suspected Boko Haram fighters stormed Kirawa community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State on Monday night.
The insurgents reportedly arrived on motorcycles around 9pm, shooting sporadically before setting fire to the palace of District Head Alhaji Abdulrahman Abubakar. Although the traditional ruler escaped, one resident was killed, shops and houses were destroyed, and a man was abducted.
Witnesses said the raid forced many villagers to flee into neighboring Cameroon for safety.
Chairman of the Kirawa Development Association, Yakubu Kirawa, called for the establishment of a military brigade in the area to protect lives and property.
Reacting to the incident, Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, described the renewed violence as “deeply troubling,” especially at a time when displaced residents had begun returning home with support from Governor Babagana Zulum. He urged the military to intensify operations by deploying more troops, drones, and air support to defeat the insurgents.
Troops Foil Bandit Attacks in Benue
Meanwhile, soldiers of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) repelled coordinated bandit attacks in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State between September 26 and 28.
The operation came a week after gunmen ambushed and killed 11 security personnel under the Anyam Nyom code name.
OPWS Acting Media Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, said troops engaged the attackers in Sheekan village and during patrols towards Igyudu, forcing them to retreat.
Recovered weapons and items included a pistol, 33 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 15 rounds of 5.56mm, two AK-47 magazines, a grenade, tear gas canister, medical kits, and several mobile phones.
The Force Commander, Major General Gara, commended the soldiers for their professionalism, assuring communities in Katsina-Ala and nearby areas that the military remains committed to restoring peace. He appealed for continued cooperation and intelligence sharing from residents.
