Tragedy struck the Gwon community of Rim District in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State as gunmen suspected to be Fulani militia killed two preachers following their church service on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
According to Solomon Dalyop, National President of Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYMA), the victims were members of an evangelism team who were preaching the gospel around the community when they were attacked.
"In the course of their preaching, the militia appeared from the nearby rocks and opened fire on them, killing the two instantly," Dalyop told journalists on Monday in Jos.
The BYMA leader further explained that the gunmen proceeded into the village, shooting sporadically until military task force and vigilante members arrived to repel the attackers, who then retreated to the hills.
Multiple Attacks Across Communities
In a disturbing development, while community members gathered to bury the deceased preachers, another attack reportedly occurred at the neighboring Bachit community, resulting in one more fatality.
"While we were burying the two people killed in Gwon, the Fulani militia went to the community headquarters of Rim and attacked the village," Dalyop recounted. "The attack lasted for about one hour, with a fierce gun battle. The attackers were all over the Jol community area, destroying farm crops as well."
The BYMA president also revealed that the attackers had warned residents on Saturday that they would come at night, and they fulfilled their threat, firing gunshots throughout the area.
Community Living in Fear
Dalyop described the dire situation facing Riyom residents: "The people are mourning and are living in apprehension and fear for their lives, not knowing what will happen next because the bandits, numbering over a hundred, are well-kitted with arms."
He condemned the attacks and called on the government and security agencies to take immediate action to protect the people of Riyom, who he said have been suffering repeated attacks for many years.
The BYMA leader expressed frustration over what he described as a porous security situation that allows assailants to attack with impunity, taking advantage of inadequate security manpower in the area.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the incidents.
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