By Ado Oyeyemi
Four people have been killed in separate attacks on communities in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, with a 55-year-old man reportedly beheaded during one of the incidents.
Another man was also seriously injured in the attacks, which occurred across four communities within three days, according to the Mwaghavul Youth Movement.
The group, in a statement issued on Sunday by its Director of Public Affairs, Tubwot Joël, on behalf of its President, Kyesmang Jonathan Yusuf, described the incidents as a fresh setback to peace efforts in the area.
The latest attack reportedly occurred in Kinat on the night of September 12, where a 29-year-old man, Katbam Titus, was killed.
The group alleged that the attack happened only hours after the General Officer Commanding, 3 Division, Nigerian Army, visited Mangu and held a security meeting with Mwaghavul and Fulani leaders.
According to the statement, the GOC had assured the communities that the Army would not allow either side to attack the other and would take action against those responsible for further violence.
The movement said the killing of Titus shortly after the security engagement raised concerns about the effectiveness of the measures being taken to protect residents.
It linked the Kinat incident to three other attacks recorded in the preceding days.
In Kikyau, Mangu Halle District, the group said 55-year-old Geoffrey Gumut was allegedly beheaded on September 11, adding that his head had yet to be recovered.
The movement also reported that a 45-year-old man, Danjuma Kyesle, was allegedly attacked with a machete in Larkas, Panyam District, and remained in medical care.
It expressed concern that security personnel were reportedly stationed in the community when the attack occurred.
In another incident in Ntul, Mangu District, the group alleged that Pius Dachen, 50, and Zadok Irmiya, 25, were killed.
The movement called for thorough investigations into the four incidents and urged security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible.
It also demanded an investigation into the alleged presence of security personnel during the Larkas attack, saying any allegation of negligence, compromise or dereliction of duty should be objectively examined.
The group appealed to the Federal and Plateau State governments to strengthen security in vulnerable communities and take decisive steps against armed groups.
It also urged Fulani leaders who participated in the GOC’s peace meeting to demonstrate their commitment to peace by helping to identify and discourage violent elements.
The Mwaghavul Youth Movement mourned the victims and expressed solidarity with their families, while praying for the recovery of Kyesle and other injured persons.
The group said it remained committed to peace but would not equate peace with silence.
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Efforts to obtain reactions from the Nigerian Army 3 Division and the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful as of press time.
