Gunmen kill traditional ruler in Plateau State

Gunmen have shot and killed Jatau Samkwar, the Mishkaham Bokkos, at his home in Daffo, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The traditional ruler was attacked on Monday night, 12 October, during a time of security worries in the area.

The Mwaghavul Traditional Council, Bokkos branch, announced the killing and said the attackers were Fulani militias.

But the identities of those responsible have not been confirmed by others.

Reports say the attackers entered the monarch's home and shot him in the legs.

He was first taken to a hospital in Daffo before being moved to another facility, where he later died.

Kefas Mallai, chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, confirmed the incident. He shared his worries about the ongoing attacks in the area.

Mr Mallai also mentioned that the traditional ruler's son was kidnapped but was freed on Sunday, just a day before the attack on his father.

As of now, the Mwaghavul Chiefdom and the Mwaghavul Development Association have not released any official statements about the attack.

Attempts to get comments from the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful. His phone lines were not reachable when trying to get more information.

This killing comes during a time of security problems in Bokkos and other parts of Plateau State. Many communities have faced repeated attacks, killings, and abductions.

In another incident, three people on a motorcycle traveling along a road connecting communities in the area were attacked. Two of them died, while the third person was injured.

The recent killing has raised new fears about the safety of residents and traditional leaders in Plateau State, especially in places that have faced ongoing security threats.