Tears flowed freely in Bindi-Jebbu, Tahoss community of Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State, as 27 victims of a recent gunmen attack were buried on Friday, July 25.
The victims, mostly farmers, were killed in the early hours of July 15. Several others were injured and are still being treated in hospitals.
At the mass burial, Riyom LGA Chairman, Bature Sati Shuwa, condemned the unrelenting violence in the area and mourned alongside grieving families.
He said, “My people of Bindi-Jebu and the greater Riyom community, we are gathered here today in unspeakable grief, hearts heavy with sorrow, to mourn our brothers and sisters; twenty-seven precious lives, cut down in a cruel and senseless act of violence in the early hours of July 15th, 2025.
“As your chairman, I stand with you not only in leadership but in deep mourning.
“I cannot begin to imagine the pain, the silence in your homes, or the weight of these empty spaces left behind.
READ ALSO: Gunmen Kill 14 Villagers, Policeman in Plateau Attacks
“To the immediate bereaved families: no words can truly comfort you, but please know that your pain is ours; your loss, a wound in the heart of all of Riyom people. The entire local government mourns with you.
“We remember them not just as victims; but as fathers, mothers, children, farmers, neighbours, and friends.”
He vowed the local government would continue to seek justice and peace, stating, “Let their memories stir in us a renewed commitment to justice, peace, and security. We will not forget. We will not be silent. And we will not rest until our communities are safe.”
Shuwa also thanked Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for visiting the community after the attack.
“Your presence was not only a gesture of compassion, but a statement of solidarity that brought comfort to many broken hearts in Riyom.
“We will not forget the love you have shown us. Indeed, you are truly a father.
“May the God of all comfort wrap His arms around every grieving soul today. May the Bindi-Jebbu community rise again in unity, strength, and hope.”