At least 12 Christians have allegedly been killed in a renewed attack in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, sparking fear, outrage, and fresh concerns over security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. The attack, which is reportedly linked to suspected Fulani herdsmen, has once again drawn attention to the persistent violence affecting rural communities in Plateau State.
According to reports circulating online, the tragic incident occurred despite earlier warnings issued by Judd Saul, founder of Truth Nigeria, who had allegedly cautioned that some Muslim extremists were planning coordinated attacks on Christian communities during the Christmas season. Saul claimed he received intelligence indicating that armed groups were mobilizing around several border areas, including Nasarawa–Plateau, Nasarawa–Kaduna, and Nasarawa–Benue borders, with plans to strike vulnerable settlements in Plateau State.
The alleged killings have intensified fears among residents, especially as the festive season approaches. Many community members say the attacks appear well-planned and targeted, raising serious questions about intelligence failures and the government’s ability to prevent violence before it happens.
A disturbing video that surfaced online, allegedly showing the aftermath of the killings, has further fueled public anger. In the footage, a man can be heard lamenting bitterly over the loss of lives and the scale of destruction. He claimed that the attackers did not use locally made weapons such as Dane guns, but rather sophisticated firearms, suggesting a higher level of organization and firepower.
“We were attacked with sophisticated weapons,” the man said emotionally. “Even using Dane guns, we’ve not been allowed to use. They came heavily armed.”
The speaker went on to express frustration over what he described as unequal enforcement of arms control, arguing that local communities are left defenseless while attackers operate freely with advanced weapons. He stressed that residents may be forced to consider acquiring AK-47 rifles purely for self-defense if the government fails to protect them or put an end to the ongoing killings.
This statement reflects a growing sentiment among affected communities, who say they feel abandoned and exposed. Many argue that repeated attacks, slow responses, and lack of arrests have emboldened violent groups while leaving civilians vulnerable.
Plateau State has long been plagued by cycles of communal violence, often involving farmers and herders, but critics insist that the scale and frequency of recent attacks point to something more organized and dangerous. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called on security agencies to act decisively, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation from security authorities regarding the exact number of casualties or arrests connected to the Barkin Ladi incident. However, civil society groups and community leaders are urging the federal and state governments to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed, especially during the Christmas period.
The alleged killing of 12 Christians has once again highlighted Nigeria’s worsening security challenges and the urgent need for proactive measures to protect lives, restore trust, and prevent retaliatory violence.