Gunmen have attacked 15 communities in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau, Nigeria, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 96 lives and the destruction of 221 homes.

The assailants also burnt eight vehicles and 27 motorcycles, as reported by the state’s police spokesman, DSP Alfred Alabo, on Tuesday in Jos.

The coordinated attacks by the gunmen on December 24 at around 10 p.m. targeted 12 villages in Bokkos, where more than 79 people were killed and 221 houses were set ablaze.

Additionally, 27 motorcycles and eight vehicles were burnt. In Barkin-Ladi, three communities were attacked by the gunmen, leading to the death of 17 individuals.

The affected communities in Bokkos were Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat, and Butura Kampani. In Barkin-Ladi, the attacked communities were NTV, Hurum, and Darawat.

According to a study by The Social Sciences Journal of Policy Review and Development Strategies, the socio-economic factors that contribute to insecurity in Africa include lack of equality and justice, poor economy, high level of unemployment, religious, political and electoral instability, ethnic or tribal differences. Overcoming these sources of crises that beset african nations, resulting in loss of lives and properties would aid development.
Nigeria’s security situation has had little or no change since President Tinubu promised to make security a top priority of his administration. In his inaugural speech, he promised to provide security personnel with better training, equipment, pay and firepower.
The current progress of Tinubu’s administration in addressing security issues is yet to be felt by many. Tinubu promised to make security a top priority of his administration. In his inaugural speech, he promised to provide security personnel with better training, equipment, pay and firepower. The administration needs to audit the security budget allocation and output of its predecessor and take a close look at its implementations. This will help identify areas of inefficiency and corruption. There is also a need for enhanced oversight and coordination among security agencies.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) responded to the tragic incidents, extending condolences to the affected families, friends, and communities.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the victims. The statement acknowledged the devastating impact on collective peace and unity, condemning the burning of houses, worship centers, and the destruction of properties.
CAN commended the swift intervention of the military and the joint police and military task force deployed to restore peace. The association urged intensified efforts in intelligence gathering to prevent such acts in the future. In the spirit of love and giving during the Christmas season, CAN called for support for the victims’ families, emphasizing the need to build a peaceful and prosperous Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.