Deadly Raid in Nigeria's Northcentral Region Leaves Dozens Dead

A violent attack by armed gunmen rocked remote villages in northcentral Nigeria on Monday night. Officials confirmed at least a dozen villagers were killed, but witnesses reported a significantly higher death toll. This incident follows a long history of bloody clashes between nomadic herders and rural farmers vying for control of land and water resources in the region. Image Source: (AP/FILE)

Published By Everything ZA News

The attack unfolded in the Wase district of Plateau state. Local newspaper The Punch reported witness accounts suggesting at least 40 villagers were killed. However, government authorities have only confirmed 12 casualties so far. Discrepancies between official figures and witness reports are not uncommon in such situations.

State information commissioner Musa Ashoms stated that the attackers opened fire on residents in the Zurak community, causing many to flee for safety. Search efforts are underway to determine if there are additional casualties.

The attack reportedly occurred after a security operation targeted hideouts belonging to the assailants. Idris Wase, a federal legislator from the region, expressed concerns about the attackers’ ability to carry out lengthy raids and escape before security forces arrive. Locals have repeatedly voiced similar frustrations about the slow response times. Arrests following such attacks are also rare.

This incident tragically adds to the already heavy toll of violence in the region. In December alone, attacks claimed the lives of at least 140 residents across multiple communities.