Nigerian president confirms over 40 killed in central state attack

IANS April 15, 2025 158 views

A devastating attack in Nigeria's Plateau State has left over 40 people dead, shocking the nation and drawing immediate presidential attention. President Bola Tinubu has condemned the violence and called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The attack represents a continuation of long-standing regional tensions between northern and southern communities. These persistent security challenges underscore the complex social and political dynamics threatening Nigeria's stability.

"We cannot allow this devastation and the tit-for-tat attacks to continue. Enough is enough." - President Bola Tinubu
Abuja, April 15: Nigerian President Bola Tinubu confirmed that over 40 people were killed in an attack by a group of unknown gunmen who wreaked havoc in a local community in the country's north-central Plateau State.

Key Points

1

Gunmen kill over 40 in Zike community late Sunday night

2

Plateau State experiencing ongoing regional violence

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President demands thorough security investigation

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Attacks highlight complex north-central Nigeria tensions

The attack occurred late Sunday night when the gunmen stormed the Zike community in the Bassa local government area of Plateau State, shooting indiscriminately at residents, local authorities said.

In a statement Monday night, Tinubu expressed "profound sorrow" over the deaths and instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating the violent acts in Plateau State, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We cannot allow this devastation and the tit-for-tat attacks to continue. Enough is enough," the president said. "These problems have been with us for more than two decades. We can no longer ignore the underlying issues. It is time to tackle them fairly and find a lasting solution. I have discussed these problems with the governor and offered suggestions for lasting peace."

Located in Nigeria's central belt between the Muslim-dominated north and the Christian-majority south, Plateau State has witnessed a series of attacks in recent years. Over a week ago, at least 52 people were killed in an attack on local communities in the state's Bokkos local government area.

The motive for the latest bloodshed is unknown. Armed attacks have been a primary security threat in Nigeria's northern and central regions, leading to deaths and kidnappings in recent months.

Reader Comments

A
Amina K.
This is heartbreaking đź’” When will these senseless killings stop? My prayers are with the families who lost loved ones. The government needs to take stronger action to protect citizens.
C
Chinedu O.
While I appreciate the president's statement, we've heard similar promises before. What concrete steps will be taken this time? Security forces need better intelligence and rapid response capabilities in these rural areas.
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Fatima B.
Plateau state has suffered too much violence. The cycle needs to break. Education and economic opportunities could help address some root causes. Praying for peace 🙏
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James U.
The pattern is worrying - first Bokkos, now Zike. Security agencies must do better at preventing these attacks, not just reacting after lives are lost. Communities need protection before tragedy strikes.
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Peace M.
My cousin lives near that area. The fear is real. People can't sleep at night wondering if they'll be next. When will our leaders prioritize security over politics? #EnoughIsEnough
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Yusuf A.
The president is right about tackling underlying issues. But we need to see action plans with timelines, not just words. The whole country is watching Plateau state.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Nigeria Violence Bola Tinubu Plateau State Attack Nigerian Security Gunmen Assault
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