Gunmen kill traditional ruler in Plateau State

The traditional ruler of Timshat in Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State, Godwin Vonga, has been killed by gunmen on the Timshat, Mabudi Road. Mr Vonga, who was a former councillor for the Nasarawa Ward in Langtang South, was attacked on Sunday while coming back home after dropping his children off at school in Mabudi.

Residents say the killing has left Timshat and nearby communities in mourning. A community member, Nanbol Pirfa, described Mr Vonga as a respected traditional leader and public servant. He added that the details of the attack are still unclear.

Nanfa Nbin, the Chairman of Langtang South Local Government Area, condemned the killing. He called it barbaric and completely unacceptable. In a statement from his spokesman, Butko Iliya, the chairman expressed his condolences to Mr Vonga's family and the people of Timshat and Langtang South.

Mr Nbin promised that those behind the killing would be found and punished. He also urged residents to work with security agencies by sharing any information that could help with the investigation. The chairman warned criminals in the area to stop their illegal activities or face serious consequences.

This killing comes at a time of rising security issues in Plateau State. Several communities have seen deadly attacks recently. On June 1, at least eight people were killed and ten others hurt when gunmen attacked Gwon-Ajang village in Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area during a birthday celebration.

Witnesses said the attackers opened fire on villagers who were gathered for the event, causing chaos and leaving many victims dead or injured. Earlier on May 10, two young men, Peter Dung, 22, and Amos Bele Danbwarang, 19, were killed in an ambush at Kyeng village in Bachi District of Riyom Local Government Area.

The Berom Youth Moulders Association reported that armed attackers shot the victims, who later fled the scene. In May, there were also deadly attacks in Bassa and Barkin Ladi local government areas. On May 9, at least 12 people, including pregnant women and children, were killed in a midnight attack on Ngbra-Zongo village in Bassa Local Government Area.

Just days before that, on May 5, gunmen attacked the Nding Susut community in Barkin Ladi, killing five people, including four women and a nine-year-old boy, while injuring several others. In response, police have sent more personnel and resources to these affected areas to help stop the violence.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been holding security meetings and visiting affected places. He assured residents that those responsible for the attacks would be brought to justice. The killing of the Timshat traditional ruler has raised more concerns about safety in rural areas across Plateau, with residents asking for stronger measures to protect lives and property.

As of now, the state police command has not released any statement about the incident. Calls and text messages sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, have not been answered.