Gunmen kill 10 residents, injure 19 during cultural festival in Plateau

About 10 residents have reportedly been killed by gunmen during a cultural festival in Chando Zerreci community in Bassa LGA of Plateau state.

In a statement on Sunday, in Jos, the state capital, Lawrence Zango, national publicity secretary, Irigwe Youth Movement, said about 19 residents were also injured in the attack.

Zango said the gunmen launched the attack on Saturday night during the annual ritual festival of ‘Zerreci’, which usually ushers them into the new farming season.

Zongo said the injured residents are receiving treatment at a medical centre in the area.

He called on the government and security agencies to find lasting solution to the incessant attacks in the area that often lead to loss of lives and property.

”The government has a responsibility to promote and protect human rights, including the right to life, and a duty to protect civilians from attacks by taking effective measures to prevent and deter attacks on our people,” he said.

“The government must as a matter of urgency investigate the attack in Irigwe land and bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that families and other victims are adequately compensated.

“Brutal attacks on our communities are becoming rampant and frequent and this is unacceptable.

”Government must take more concrete steps to protect lives and property across Iregwe chiefdom and neighboring communities.”

Ubah Ogaba, police spokesperson in the state, confirmed the attack, adding that the command had mobilised armed officers to the place to restore normalcy.

He called on residents of the area and the state to remain calm and law abiding, adding that security agencies are working seriously to ensure their safety.