April 04, (THEWILL) – At least 10 people have been killed and 19 others injured, after Gunmen launched an attack, during a cultural festival in Chando Zerreci community in Irigwe Chiefdom of Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
National Publicity Secretary, Irigwe Youth Movement, Lawrence Zango, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday.
Zango said that the gunmen launched the attack on Saturday night, during the annual ritual festival of ‘Zerreci’, which usually ushers them into the new farming season.
He said the injured are currently receiving treatment at Enos Hospital, Miango and called on the government at all levels and the security agencies to find a lasting solution to the incessant attacks that usually lead to the loss of lives and property.
The statement reads: The National Leadership of Irigwe Youth Movement (IYM), condemns the attack of the Irigwe people on her annual ritual festival ‘Zerreci’, the festival that will usher them into the rainy farming season.
“They group alleged that they were attacked by herdsmen late Saturday night at about 11pm at Chando Zerreci in Bassa Local Government of Plateau state.
“The Nigerian 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 the Rigwe people.”
“The government must as a matter of urgency investigate the attack in Irigwe land and bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure families and other victims are adequately compensated.”
“Brutal attacks on Rigwe communities are becoming rampant and frequent. This is unacceptable. The government must take more concrete steps to protect lives and properties across Rigwe chiefdom and neighboring communities.”
Zango also appealed to the International community to come to the aid of the people and support them and address the huge humanitarian challenges caused by the attacks.
Plateau police spokesman Uba Ogaba, confirmed the attack, adding that the Command had mobilised armed personnel to the place to restore normalcy.
He called on residents of the area and Plateau, in general, to remain calm and law-abiding, adding that security agencies are working seriously to ensure their safety.
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