Terror returned to Plateau State this week as gunmen stormed the Bunyun community in Wase Local Government Area, abducting two palace officials and one other individual while torching several homes.
The attack took place on Wednesday around 7:30 pm and is suspected to be a retaliatory move following a deadly clash last Sunday between vigilantes and suspected bandits. That previous confrontation had resulted in multiple deaths and the destruction of homes.
Speaking to journalists in Jos on Thursday, the traditional ruler of the community, Abdulbari’u Muhammad, confirmed the attack and identified the abducted individuals as Waziri and Wakili—two key palace administrators, one of whom is his own younger brother.
Muhammad revealed that the assailants arrived in large numbers on motorcycles and looted homes, carting away valuable items such as food supplies, clothing, and motorcycles. “We are completely confused and don’t know what to do. That’s why everyone fled to Bashar for safety,” he said.
Residents reported that the community was deserted by Thursday morning, with many families seeking refuge in nearby towns. A local resident, Abubakar Zubairu, confirmed the panic and mass migration to PUNCH Metro, saying, “The community was completely empty this morning.”
The monarch appealed to the Nigerian government to deploy more security forces to the region, especially during the farming season. “Our crops are already planted, and we’re worried about our farms. We need security so we can return and protect our livelihoods,” he pleaded.
This latest assault underscores the rising insecurity in Plateau and other parts of Nigeria’s North-Central region. Locals have repeatedly called for better security measures, citing increased attacks from bandits, kidnappers, and unknown gunmen in rural communities.
So far, there has been no official statement from the Plateau State Police Command or Operation Safe Haven. Multiple attempts to contact their spokesmen were unsuccessful, with calls and messages left unanswered as of the time this report was filed.
With thousands now displaced and key community figures abducted, the situation remains tense in Bunyun. Locals continue to wait for urgent government intervention to restore order and prevent further tragedy.
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