Gunmen Kill Pastor, Wife, Two Children In Plateau Attack

Gunmen Kill Pastor, Wife, Two Children In Plateau Attack

Gunmen have attacked Gako Village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing a pastor, his wife and their two children in a fresh wave of violence that has heightened fear among residents. The attack, which occurred late at night, left the rural community in shock as armed assailants reportedly stormed the village and opened fire on residents before fleeing the scene.

According to local sources, the victims were identified as a Christian cleric and members of his immediate family who were reportedly attacked inside their residence. Community leaders said the assailants invaded the area without warning, shooting sporadically and causing panic among villagers. The pastor, his spouse and their children died during the assault. Residents described the incident as another tragic episode in the recurring security crisis affecting parts of Plateau State. Following the killings, many villagers reportedly fled their homes overnight, fearing further attacks. Local residents lamented that repeated assaults have disrupted farming activities and normal life, urging authorities to provide stronger security presence to prevent additional violence. Community representatives called on both the state and federal governments to urgently intervene and protect vulnerable rural settlements Security operatives were said to have been deployed to the area after the incident, while investigations have commenced to identify and apprehend those responsible. Authorities have not officially confirmed arrests as of the time of filing this report. Plateau State has experienced recurring communal and bandit-related attacks in recent years, often resulting in casualties and displacement of residents. Stakeholders continue to call for sustained security operations, improved intelligence gathering and reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring peace in affected communities. Religious and community leaders condemned the killings, describing them as senseless acts of violence against innocent civilians.

They urged government authorities to strengthen security architecture, ensure justice for victims and implement long-term measures to end repeated attacks across rural communities.