A mob has killed eight travellers on their way to a wedding in the Mangun District of Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State.

The incident occurred on Friday evening as the victims, travelling from Zaria in Kaduna State to Quan’pan Local Government Area, Plateau State, lost their way and inadvertently entered a volatile situation in Mangun — a community already grappling with sustained terrorist attacks.

Caught in the unrest, eight of the wedding-bound travellers were killed, while several others sustained varying degrees of injury. The wounded are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Mangu.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the killings. During visits to both the survivors at the hospital and the scene of the incident, he described the mob action as “totally condemnable and avoidable”.

He lamented that for over a month, Mangu District and adjoining communities such as Chakfem in Mangu LGA and Mushere in Bokkos LGA have suffered coordinated terrorist assaults resulting in daily casualties, mass displacement, and widespread grief.

However, Governor Mutfwang stressed that ongoing insecurity cannot justify such senseless violence against innocent commuters.
“Today is a tragic day for us in Plateau State. I never imagined such a senseless act of violence could occur within our borders, especially considering the commendable efforts of our youths in this community and neighbouring districts who have consistently risen to support security agencies against criminal incursions,” the governor said.

“It is deeply disheartening that the same youths who have shown courage and patriotism would turn around and take the law into their own hands. This is utterly unacceptable, and the government will not sweep it under the carpet.

“We are building a Plateau that is welcoming and hospitable to all. We have been educating our young people on the importance of allowing free passage on all state roads. This incident is a rude shock,” he added.

Governor Mutfwang assured Nigerians that Plateau remains safe for travellers and disclosed that he had briefed the Governor of Kaduna State and spoken with the Emir of Zazzau to express condolences. He also announced that a high-powered delegation would visit Kaduna State and the families of the deceased to convey the condolences of the Plateau State government and people.

While extending his sympathies to the bereaved families and the people of Kaduna State, the governor stressed that such acts of violence have no place in a civilised society. He warned against any form of jungle justice, no matter the provocation, even amidst the frustrations of communities under siege.

The General Hospital in Mangu, along with all other medical facilities treating the victims, has been directed to provide optimal care, with the Plateau State Government covering all treatment costs.

Governor Mutfwang also instructed security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served and to implement proactive measures to prevent a recurrence.

The governor further condemned the ongoing wave of killings and destruction in rural communities across Bokkos, Mangu, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Bassa LGAs, which have resulted in mass displacement and a deepening humanitarian crisis.