Gunmen stormed the farm of Pastor Apollos Charly in the Lamor community of Pushit District, Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State on Wednesday night, killing 36‑year‑old Steven Bala, wounding the pastor and causing 57‑year‑old Danbaba Libet to disappear.
Three key details emerged from eyewitness accounts: the victim killed was identified as Mr. Steven Bala, aged 36; Pastor Apollos Charly sustained injuries but survived; and Mr. Danbaba Libet, aged 57, remains unaccounted for. Community member Nehemiah Bulus told reporters that the assailants had been terrorising villages across Plateau State for weeks.
What transpired at the farm?
The attackers reportedly opened fire on the farm premises where Pastor Charly was conducting routine agricultural work. Bulus said the gunmen moved swiftly, targeting individuals present at the site before fleeing the scene.
Who reported the incident?
Nehemiah Bulus, a resident of Lamor, confirmed the events to journalists in Jos on Wednesday evening. He relayed that local authorities had not yet arrived, and that the community was left in shock.
How did the community react?
Bulus condemned the assault, describing the killing of an innocent civilian and the injury of a religious leader as "unacceptable." He stated, "We condemn this senseless attack in the strongest terms. No community should be subjected to this kind of violence, and innocent people should not continue to lose their lives."
What actions are being demanded?
The spokesperson appealed to security agencies to investigate, locate the missing man, and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also urged a stronger security presence in the area to deter future attacks and reassure residents of their safety.
Attempts by reporters to reach security operatives for comment were unsuccessful at the time of writing.