Armed attackers kill 24 in night raid in Nigeria

At least 24 people were killed in an attack by armed individuals in Plateau state in north-central Nigeria. The assault began late Monday (August 17) and continued until Tuesday morning, according to local residents and multiple sources .

The attack took place in the Bin-Per area of Kombun district in Mangu Local Government Area. The assailants entered the community under cover of darkness and went from house to house, attacking sleeping residents. Several homes were set on fire .

Bulus Dabit, president of the Mangu Development Association, said the armed individuals entered the area around midnight when most residents were asleep. Local resident Mathew Joseph said he heard people screaming from neighbouring houses and managed to escape after seeing armed men approaching his home .

The attack caused extensive damage to property. Matthew Sylvester Kwarpo, a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly representing Mangu South constituency, said the assailants burned at least 38 houses and destroyed farmlands, stored grains and other valuables .

In the aftermath, calls have been made to strengthen security in vulnerable areas. Kwarpo urged security forces to enhance intelligence operations and ensure rapid deployment to at-risk communities. He also called for emergency assistance for affected residents, including food, shelter and medical support .

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack and ordered security forces to intensify surveillance and patrols in Bin-Per and other vulnerable communities in Mangu. He appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid retaliatory attacks, while urging them to provide security forces with any information that could help identify and arrest those responsible .