Yesterday, terrorists launched an attack on the Farin Kasa and Sabon Gari communities in Mangu Local Council, Plateau State, Nigeria, resulting in the death of 12 individuals, injuries to others, and the destruction of houses.
This incident adds to the growing fatality count in the area, which has reached 231 within a span of two months. In response, the state government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Mangu, and the military has relocated its base to the area.
According to a reliable source who spoke anonymously, the attackers carried out the latest assault around 11:00 a.m. The residents of the affected communities have expressed their loss of confidence in the security forces, as previous attacks have occurred without resistance or arrests.
Prior to this, the National President of the Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA), Joseph Gwankat, disclosed that they had recorded over 204 fatalities due to Fulani attacks. Gwankat criticized the claim made by leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) that the Operation Rainbow security operatives initiated the violence.
The source mentioned that there were reports of native residents retaliating against Fulani cattle rustlers, resulting in the killing of seven individuals in the Kombun community. This action reportedly provoked the Fulani, who are said to be mobilizing for further clashes.
The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in consultation with the State Security Council, has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Mangu to restore law and order. Movement within the local council has been restricted, except for security personnel and those on essential duties.
To bolster security, the Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, temporarily relocated the headquarters of the operation to Mangu. The aim is to collaborate with local authorities and mitigate the situation. Maj-Gen. Abubakar emphasized the seriousness of the situation and assured decisive and firm action to prevent further deterioration of security.
