Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.
BARKIN LADI, Plateau State — Tensions are once again high in Nigeria’s North-Central region following a deadly overnight attack in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, leaving residents reeling and renewing urgent questions about security in the region. Local sources and community leaders confirmed that gunmen stormed parts of Barkin Ladi late at night, targeting residential areas and opening fire on civilians. While the full casualty figure remains unconfirmed at the time of reporting, multiple residents reported fatalities and injuries, with several homes set ablaze during the assault.Security agencies have yet to release an official statement detailing the number of victims or identifying the perpetrators. However, military and police personnel were reportedly deployed to the area in the early hours following distress calls from residents. A Pattern of recurring violence Barkin Ladi has been one of the flashpoints in Plateau State’s long-running communal and sectarian conflicts, often linked to farmer-herder disputes, land ownership tensions, and broader ethno-religious divisions. Over the years, the area has witnessed repeated cycles of retaliatory violence, leading to significant displacement and loss of life. National and international media organizations, including the BBC News, Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Premium Times, have previously documented similar attacks in Plateau State, highlighting the persistent insecurity in rural communities across the Middle Belt.In past reports, these outlets have underscored the complex interplay of climate pressures, grazing routes, weak law enforcement presence, and political dynamics that have fueled recurring clashes in the region. Community fears and humanitarian concerns residents who spoke to local correspondents described scenes of panic as families fled into nearby bushes to escape gunfire. Some displaced persons have reportedly sought refuge in neighboring communities and churches. Civil society groups in Plateau State have repeatedly called for improved intelligence gathering, proactive security deployment, and community-based peacebuilding initiatives. Religious leaders and traditional rulers have also urged restraint and appealed for calm to prevent retaliatory attacks. Humanitarian actors warn that renewed violence in Barkin Ladi could exacerbate displacement, food insecurity, and economic hardship in an area already grappling with fragile livelihoods. Government response under scrutiny the plateau State Government has in previous instances pledged to strengthen security collaboration with federal authorities, including the Nigerian Army and police units stationed in the state. However, recurring attacks have continued to raise concerns about the effectiveness of these measures.Security analysts argue that without a comprehensive strategy addressing root causes — including land reform, conflict resolution mechanisms, and accountability for perpetrators — Plateau State may remain vulnerable to cyclical violence. As investigations continue, residents of Barkin Ladi are calling for swift arrests and justice for victims, emphasizing the urgent need for durable peace in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as official statements are released. Sources: BBC News; Al Jazeera; Reuters; Premium Times.
Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.
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