Plateau State was thrown into mourning on Friday as 27 victims of a recent deadly attack in Riyom Local Government Area were laid to rest in a mass burial ceremony.
The burial was attended by grieving families, friends, and government officials.
The victims, mostly farmers from the Bindi-Jebbu community, were killed by gunmen suspected to be Fulani militia who invaded the village in the early hours of July 15, 2025.
Wails of anguish echoed across the burial ground as families and friends of the deceased lamented the loss of their loved ones.
Speaking during the burial, Chairman of Riyom LG, Mr Bature Shuwa, decried the persistent attacks on rural communities in the area and described the killings as senseless and cruel.
Addressing mourners, Shuwa said, “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—27 precious lives cut down in a cruel and senseless act of violence.
“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 the 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 the people of Riyom. The entire local government mourns with you.”
He described the deceased as “not just victims, but fathers, mothers, children, farmers, neighbours, and friends,” adding that their memories must inspire 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,” he said.
