Fresh violence has again shaken communities in Plateau State, as a man and his pregnant wife were reportedly killed in a new attack in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, deepening fears over the worsening security situation across the state.
According to reports, the couple, identified as Iliya Gyang and his wife Grace, were attacked by gunmen in Angwan Ishaku community. Witnesses said the assailants arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire before fleeing the area. The pregnant woman reportedly died at the scene, while her husband later died from injuries sustained during the attack. Two other residents were also said to have been injured.
The latest killings came barely a day after Governor Caleb Mutfwang renewed calls for stronger security operations against armed attackers terrorising rural communities. Residents say the incident has intensified anxiety among families already living in fear due to repeated attacks in several parts of the state.
In recent weeks, multiple communities in Bassa, Barkin Ladi, and other local government areas have witnessed deadly assaults that left dozens dead, including women, children, and elderly residents. Earlier reports indicated that at least 11 people, including pregnant women, were killed during a midnight raid on Ngbra-Zongo community in Bassa Local Government Area. Survivors recounted scenes of chaos as gunmen invaded homes and opened fire on sleeping residents.
Humanitarian concerns are also growing as attacks continue to displace families and destroy livelihoods. Community leaders and civil society groups have warned that many villagers now sleep in fear or flee into nearby bushes whenever gunshots are heard. Reports of orphaned children, destroyed homes, and abandoned farmlands have further highlighted the human cost of the violence.
Security analysts say the persistent attacks reflect broader instability affecting parts of Nigeria’s Middle Belt and Sahel region, where weak security presence, communal tensions, and armed groups continue to fuel violence. Residents in Plateau State have repeatedly called for improved intelligence gathering, rapid response from security agencies, and stronger protection for vulnerable rural communities.
Despite assurances from government authorities, many citizens say confidence in the security response remains low as attacks continue to occur across affected communities. Community leaders are urging both federal and state authorities to take decisive action to prevent further loss of lives and restore peace to the region.
