Synopsis
In a tragic incident in Nigeria's Plateau State, President Bola Tinubu confirmed over 40 fatalities due to an attack by unknown gunmen. The president expressed deep sorrow and called for an investigation into the violence. This attack reflects ongoing security challenges in the region, which have persisted for decades.Key Takeaways
- Over 40 fatalities confirmed by President Tinubu.
- Attack occurred in the Zike community of Plateau State.
- President calls for thorough investigation into the violence.
- Continuing security challenges in Nigeria's central regions.
- Need for addressing root causes of violence emphasized.
Abuja, April 15 (NationPress) Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has confirmed that more than 40 individuals lost their lives in an assault by unidentified gunmen who unleashed chaos in a local community situated in the country's north-central Plateau State.
The incident transpired late on Sunday night when the assailants invaded the Zike community in the Bassa local government area, firing indiscriminately at the residents, according to local officials.
In a statement released on Monday evening, Tinubu conveyed his deep sorrow regarding the fatalities and called upon security forces to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the crisis to pinpoint those accountable for the violent actions in Plateau State, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"We cannot permit this destruction and the cycle of escalating violence to persist. This has gone on long enough," the president remarked. "These issues have plagued us for over two decades. We can no longer disregard the root causes. It is crucial to address them justly and seek enduring solutions. I have conferred with the governor and provided recommendations for lasting peace."
Positioned in Nigeria's central region, bridging the Muslim-majority north and the Christian-dominated south, Plateau State has experienced a series of violent incidents in recent years. Just over a week ago, at least 52 people were killed in an assault on local communities within the Bokkos local government area of the state.
The reasons behind this latest outbreak of violence remain unclear. Armed assaults have emerged as a significant security threat in Nigeria's northern and central regions, resulting in numerous deaths and kidnappings in recent months.
