A mass burial was held on Friday for the 27 victims who lost their lives in a brutal gunmen attack in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The deceased men and women mostly farmers were killed during an early morning raid on the Bindi-Jebbu community on July 15, 2025. The attackers stormed the village in the dark of night, leaving devastation in their wake. Several other residents were injured in their sleep and rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
At the solemn ceremony, Chairman of Riyom LGA, Bature Shuwa, addressed the gathering, expressing grief over the relentless attacks plaguing rural communities in the area. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Bindi-Jebbu community.
“My people of Bindi-Jebu and the greater Riyom community, we are gathered here today in unspeakable grief, hearts heavy with sorrow, to mourn our brothers and sisters; twenty-seven precious lives, cut down in a cruel and senseless act of violence in the early hours of July 15th, 2025.
“As your Chairman, I stand with you not only in leadership but in deep mourning. I cannot begin to imagine the pain, the silence in your homes, or the weight of these empty spaces left behind.
“To the immediate bereaved families: no words can truly comfort you, but please know that your pain is ours; your loss, a wound in the heart of all of Riyom people. The entire local government mourns with you.
“We remember them not just as victims, but as fathers, mothers, children, farmers, neighbours, and friends.
“Let their memories stir in us a renewed commitment to justice, peace, and security. We will not forget. We will not be silent. And we will not rest until our communities are safe.
“At this moment of great grief, I wish to express our deep and heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his personal and prompt visit to Bindi in the immediate aftermath of the attack. Your presence, Your Excellency, was not only a gesture of compassion but a statement of solidarity that brought comfort to many broken hearts in Riyom. We will not forget the love you have shown us. Indeed, you are truly a father.
“We also warmly welcome the Plateau state government delegation, who are here with us today. Your presence honours the lives we mourn and reinforces the bond of commitment between the state and our peaceful people.
“May the God of all comfort wrap His arms around every grieving soul today. May the Bindi-Jebu community rise again in unity, strength, and hope,” he added.
The tragedy has reignited calls for urgent security interventions in Plateau’s vulnerable communities, many of which have suffered repeated attacks in recent years. Community leaders are now demanding that justice be served and that sustainable measures be put in place to protect lives and livelihoods going forward.
