By Adesakin Adefemi
Gunmen killed and beheaded 30-year-old Elisha Saku on Thursday night in Riwhie-Chwo, Nzharuvo, within Miango District of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, plunging the farming community into panic.
Residents said the attack occurred around 10 pm when armed men stormed the area. The sudden invasion triggered confusion as locals fled for safety and raised the alarm over the latest violence in the district.
The killing was confirmed on Friday in a statement issued by the Irigwe Youth Movement. The group described the act as brutal and called for calm while urging authorities to respond swiftly.
Joseph Yonkpa, National Publicity Secretary of the Irigwe Youth Movement, signed the statement on behalf of the group. He prayed for the repose of Saku’s soul and asked for divine comfort for the entire Irigwe nation during what he called another painful loss.
“Yesterday night, 16th April 2026, gunmen ambushed and beheaded Mr Elisha Abbas Saku, 30, at Riwhie-Chwo, Nzharuvo, Miango District of Bassa LGA, Plateau State,” the statement read.
Efforts to get a response from security agencies were unsuccessful as of press time. The spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached when contacted about the incident.
The killing adds to recurring security challenges in parts of Plateau State, particularly in Bassa LGA. Farming communities in the area have repeatedly come under attack, leading to loss of lives, displacement, and disruption of agricultural activities.
Community members said the latest incident has heightened fear among residents who rely on night movements to protect farmlands during the planting season. Many are now calling for increased patrols and a permanent security presence.
Local leaders appealed to federal and state authorities to intervene and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities in Miango District. They argued that repeated attacks without arrests embolden perpetrators and erode trust in the security architecture.
