At least 12 travelers from the Basawa community in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State have been killed in an attack by a mob in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Friday when a group of 31 individuals, including men, women, and children, were traveling in an 18-seater bus reportedly owned by Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

The victims, reportedly en route from Zaria in Kaduna State to Quan’pan LGA for a wedding ceremony, lost their way and entered Mangun during a period of heightened tension in the community, which has recently experienced a series of terrorist attacks.

According to eyewitnesses and preliminary investigations, the travelers arrived around 6:00 p.m. and were tragically mistaken for threats. In the chaos that ensued, they were attacked by a mob, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals.

Several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Mangu.

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, described the incident as “senseless, condemnable, and avoidable.”

Visiting the survivors and the scene of the attack on Saturday, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep sorrow over the killings. He emphasized that while the region continues to grapple with insecurity, it must not descend into lawlessness.

As a gesture of solidarity, Governor Mutfwang said he had spoken with Kaduna State Governor and the Emir of Zazzau to convey condolences. He also announced that a high-powered delegation from Plateau State will visit Zaria to sympathize with the victims’ families and the Kaduna State Government.