The District Head of Gwande District in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, Saf Samuel Alaket, has been killed following an ambush by suspected gunmen.
According to Daily Trust report, the attack occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, along the Sha District axis near Daffo community while the traditional ruler was returning from a traditional council meeting in Bokkos.
How the Attack Happened
Eyewitnesses said the attackers laid an ambush near the boundary between Sha District and Daffo and opened fire on the monarch’s vehicle as he approached his hometown.
The district head reportedly sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby medical facility, where he later died while receiving treatment.
Community Reacts to Monarch’s Death
Residents described the killing as a major blow to the community.
A community member, Aten Pukat, said:
“The death of the traditional ruler is a painful loss to the people of Gwande and the entire Bokkos community.”
The incident has plunged the Bokkos Traditional Council and surrounding communities into mourning, with residents expressing shock and concern over the worsening security situation.
Youth Leader Speaks
Christopher Luka, a youth leader in Bokkos, confirmed that tension initially gripped the area after news of the attack spread.
According to him:
“Everybody was initially tensed, but we have been able to calm the situation and normalcy has returned.”
Police Yet to Comment
As of the time of reporting, the Plateau State Police Command had not released an official statement regarding the assassination.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, were reportedly unsuccessful.
The killing has renewed concerns about security in Plateau State, where communities have experienced repeated attacks and violent incidents in recent months.
Public Reactions
The incident generated reactions from Nigerians on social media.
Condemnation of the Killing
One commenter wrote:
“This is heartbreaking. Traditional rulers should not become targets of violence. The government must act decisively.”
Another said:
“Plateau cannot continue like this. Every week brings another tragic story.”
Calls for Improved Security
Some Nigerians called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and rural security operations.
A social media user commented:
“The attackers seem to operate freely. Security agencies must identify and prosecute those behind these killings.”
Another wrote:
“Communities are losing confidence because these attacks keep happening without arrests.”
