By Muhammad Tanko
A devastating attack on the Gyenbwas community in Langai district, Mangu local government area of Plateau state, has left 96 houses burned to ashes and three people killed.
The community has accused the Berom ethnic group of launching the attack, which also resulted in widespread looting of food, mattresses, cattle, and other valuables.
According to Alhaji Yakubu Umar, a traditional ruler and Madugun Langai, said the attack was brutal and unprecedented.
“We have never experienced such atrocities,” he lamented.
“The perpetrators burned working equipment, clothes, foodstuffs, and other items.
“They also looted goods worth millions of naira. We live peacefully with everyone, and that’s why we were very surprised.
The traditional ruler has called on both the state and Mangu local government to investigate those behind the attack and bring them to justice,” he lamented.
He therefore urged the state government to provide aid to those who have lost their properties.
However, the Berom Youth Mouders Association (BYM) has denied involvement in the attack, describing the allegations as false.
BYM President Dalyop Solomon claimed that their members were attacked and are currently receiving treatment in some hospitals.
“Yesterday, three of our members who were on the farm around the area were attacked by terrorists and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
“All we know is that our people are under attack. Fulani are only coming out with excuses to justify their terror attacks.
“Someone who is targeted may exercise the right to self-defense of life, family, and property, which is allowed by law,” Solomon said.
He further stated that their people have the right to defend themselves against any attack.
However, the Plateau state government is yet to comment on the incident.
