In the aftermath of a devastating attack in the Zikke community of Bassa Local Government Area, Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has cautioned against attributing violent acts to ethnic groups, urging unity in the face of escalating insecurity.
The assault, which took place on Monday, claimed several lives, razed homes, and displaced hundreds. Eyewitness accounts and local reports pointed to suspected armed Fulani herdsmen, a group frequently linked to similar violence in nearby Benue State.
During a visit to the embattled area on IGP Egbetokun condemned the violence and promised a robust security response.
“These senseless killings must stop,” Egbetokun said. “While I won’t say much now, I assure you—these criminal elements will be dealt with. Their days are numbered.”
He emphasized the importance of unity among communities and urged Nigerians to refrain from ethnic labeling.
“Criminals are criminals—they have no tribe,” the police chief declared. “Let us not allow ethnicity to divide us. We must confront these threats together.”
Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang, who accompanied the IGP during the tour, expressed deep anguish over the killings, describing the massacre as “plain murder.” He noted that even toddlers and the elderly were among the victims.
“What threat does a three-year-old pose?” Muftwang asked, visibly shaken. “This is not just tragic—it’s evil. Plateau was making progress toward peace, but this has set us back.”
Muftwang disclosed that he had spoken directly with President Bola Tinubu, who pledged coordinated action from all security agencies.
“We won’t relent,” the governor said. “Calm may have returned for now, but we must stay alert and ensure justice is served.”
WorldClass247News, observed that, the Zikke attack marks yet another chapter in the cycle of violence plaguing Plateau State, long marred by ethno-religious tensions, herder-farmer conflicts, and armed insurgency.
Civil society organizations continue to call on the federal government to intensify efforts to restore lasting peace to the region.