Plateau Imposes 24-Hour Curfew After Mass Assault 

A deadly attack has resulted in implementing of a 24-hour curfew in Plateau state.

By Omotayo Olutekunbi

Markus Artu, Chairman of the Interim Management Committee of the Mangu Local Government Area, has taken immediate action in response to a savage attack on citizens on Sunday night, June 18, 2023.

Artu has imposed a strict 24-hour curfew in reaction to the sad occurrence, virtually barring all motor travel until further notice. Only authorized security officers and necessary staff will be permitted to travel during this time.

The attack, which resulted in a considerable loss of life and the wanton destruction of houses worth millions of naira, has devastated the town.

A corpse dragged into a nearby mosque triggered an onslaught of machete-wielding attackers who showed no mercy as they attacked innocent civilians.

A survivor revealed their traumatic experience while finding safety inside the Palace of Mishkaham Mangu near the Mangu Police Station.

“Our house is located near the mosque, and by God’s grace, we narrowly escaped being victims of the brutal machete attacks,” they recounted. “We are anxiously waiting, relying on divine intervention to protect us.”

Lawrence Kyarshik, the National Director of Public Affairs, acknowledged the seriousness of the issue. He characterized Mangu town as immersed in panic and uncertainty, with inhabitants befuddled.

Bala Fwangji, the representative for the Mangu South constituency, further validated the severity of the crisis. He expressed deep concern, stating, “Our people in Mangu are under siege. Innocent individuals are being mercilessly attacked and killed without remorse. The violence, which initially erupted in the Bwai community, has now spread to Mangu town and Sabon Gari.”

Fwangji begged for aid promptly, emphasizing the acute need for assistance. As a result, the local government has imposed a 24-hour curfew over the whole Mangu Local Government Area to control the crisis and protect the lives of its citizens.