No fewer than 14 people were killed by unknown gunmen in Plateau State between Saturday and Sunday.
The nocturnal attack, during which the villagers were killed, it was learnt, occurred in the Lisham Kwahasnat community, situated between Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas of the state.
Sources said following the killings, the angry villagers pursued the assailants, resulting in the burning of several houses and the destruction of properties in different localities on Sunday.
State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Alabo Alfred, declined to make any comment on the incident.
But spokesman for the military taskforce in charge of maintaining peace in the state, Captain Oya James, confirmed the killings in Jos on Sunday.
James condemned the renewed violence in the area.
He, however, assured that more troops had been deployed to the troubled communities to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
He said, “We were on our way to Mangu to prepare for an event tomorrow (Monday) when we were told that there was little unrest in Bokkos and we had to move to Bokkos, and we have been there since morning till now.
“What happened was that some assailants went to a village between Mangu and Bokkos and killed fourteen persons.
“The villagers were also attacking herders thinking possibly that they were the ones responsible for the killings. So, we have been here trying to stop them.
“While we are in a particular location, you will hear that they have started attacking another village and our troops will rush to the affected village.
“That is what we have been doing since morning till this Sunday afternoon but the situation has been brought under control because our troops are on the ground and more troops are on their way to ensure that no further breakdown of law and other happens.”
Meanwhile, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, on Sunday, appealed to the citizens of the state to embrace peace and love for one another despite current challenges.
Mutfwang’s statement was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere.
The Governor also extended his warm greetings to citizens of the state and Nigerians on the joyous occasion of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the reason for Christmas celebration.
Mutfwang encouraged all citizens, both in Plateau and across Nigeria, to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by sharing love and exchanging gifts, especially with the less privileged.
“On behalf of your Government, I extend heartfelt wishes as we collectively commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let us recall that God’s love for mankind led to the redemption through His son. This Christmas, let’s rekindle our love for humanity by dedicating our time and energy to enriching the lives of others.
“May we embody values of love, charity, and selflessness, contributing to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Plateau.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the state, including security issues, economic hardships, and political concerns, Governor Mutfwang reassured the people that his administration is committed to alleviating these difficulties.
He emphasised faith in divine intervention and called for hope and prayer for a positive turnaround.
“As we celebrate, let’s hold onto hope, knowing that God, in His grace, will guide us through. I urge all citizens to conduct themselves peacefully, contributing to the creation of a harmonious environment for lawful activities.”
Governor Mutfwang also expressed heartfelt wishes for joy, happiness, hope, and unity in diversity during this memorable Christmas celebration, praying for divine blessings upon Plateau State.