Three Plateau vigilantes killed during night patrol, sparking highway protest

Three vigilantes, including the youth leader of Kassa community in Plateau State, were killed during a night patrol, prompting residents to block a major highway in protest. The gunmen reportedly attacked the community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area at about 1am on Friday and opened fire on the local vigilantes. Resident John Dung said the victims had been helping to protect the community at night.

Women and youths subsequently barricaded the Jos-Barkin Ladi-Mangu highway for several hours. The protest disrupted traffic and left travellers stranded as residents demanded improved security and an end to repeated attacks. Protester Esther Pam said residents were frustrated by the continued killings despite the presence of security personnel.

She called for the attackers to be pursued and arrested. Rwang Tengwong, national publicity secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, described the deaths as disturbing. He said the victims had been defending their community and urged security agencies to identify and arrest those responsible.

Security personnel were later deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation. The Plateau State Government condemned the attack as deeply regrettable and unacceptable, according to Commissioner for Information and Communication Joyce Ramnap. The government commiserated with the victims’ families and said security agencies were taking steps to apprehend the perpetrators.

It urged residents not to block the highway, saying the action could endanger travellers, and said the road had been cleared and remained open. The government also said it would continue working with security agencies and communities to strengthen security and sustain peace in the state.