Pastor, Wife & Kids Killed in A New Plateau Attack
Pastor, Wife & Kids Killed in A New Plateau Attack
Gunmen have reportedly attacked Gako Village in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing a pastor and three members of his family during a late-night assault that has left residents traumatised. The victims were identified as Rev. Ayuba Choji, his wife Chundung Ayuba, and their two children, Cyril Ayuba and Endurance Ayuba. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, has further heightened fear in rural Plateau communities already struggling with repeated violence.
Communities across Plateau State, particularly in areas such as Riyom and Barkin Ladi, have faced recurring attacks in recent times. Many residents have continued to raise concerns over insecurity, farm destruction, and killings that disrupt daily life and weaken local economies.
Beyond the loss of lives, such incidents often lead to displacement, loss of livelihood, and heightened tension between neighbouring communities. Farmers in affected areas also face increasing difficulty accessing farmlands, contributing to food scarcity and rising economic hardship.
The latest attack in Gako Village adds to the growing list of violent incidents that have left many communities living in fear.
According to local sources, the attackers stormed Gako Village at about 11pm on Sunday night, firing gunshots across the community and forcing residents to flee their homes for safety.
A resident, Martha Dalyop, described the incident as a painful reminder of the insecurity in the area, noting that many villagers now struggle to sleep peacefully due to fear of repeated attacks.
The killings were later confirmed by the Berom Youths Moulder Association, through its Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong.
Tengwong stated that the attackers appear to be shifting focus to rural communities, farming settlements, and even local vigilante groups who attempt to protect residents.
He further explained that the gunmen often operate in coordinated units, with different groups carrying out specific roles during attacks.
Speaking on the incident, Martha Dalyop expressed sorrow and frustration, describing the killings as another heavy blow to the community.
The Berom Youths Moulder Association, through Rwang Tengwong, also raised alarm over the alleged pattern of attacks, claiming the gunmen sometimes work in coordinated groups.
He stated that in many cases: one group attacks residents directly, another destroys farmlands and crops, others block access routes or monitor movement to prevent rescue efforts
The youth group warned that this pattern suggests the attackers are organized and strategic in their operations.
The killing of Rev. Ayuba Choji and his family has sparked renewed fear in Plateau communities, especially as the attack occurred at night when residents were least prepared.
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For Christians, the death of a pastor and his household represents more than a tragic family loss it is a reminder of how insecurity continues to threaten churches and communities in vulnerable areas.
The incident also highlights the growing danger faced by rural farmers. Tengwong’s disclosure that farmlands in Kassa community of Barkin Ladi LGA were vandalized within the last 48 hours further raises concerns about food production and economic survival.
According to the report, crops including cabbage, maize, and hot pepper were destroyed, worsening hardship for farmers already battling insecurity and poverty.
With fear rising across Riyom and Barkin Ladi, residents are calling for stronger government intervention and improved security presence to prevent more killings and farmland destruction.
The latest killings in Gako Village reflect the painful reality that many Plateau communities continue to face: insecurity is no longer occasional, but recurring.
For believers, this tragedy calls for renewed prayer for peace, protection, and healing. It also calls for urgent advocacy for justice and stronger security response. When communities cannot sleep safely or farm without fear, society risks deeper hunger, poverty, and displacement.
The death of a pastor and his family is a heartbreaking reminder that violence affects not only individuals, but entire communities and future generations.
Gunmen have reportedly attacked Gako Village in Riyom LGA of Plateau State, killing Rev. Ayuba Choji, his wife, and two children in a late-night assault. The attack has heightened tension in Riyom and neighbouring Barkin Ladi, as reports also emerged of farmlands being destroyed in other communities.
Residents are urging government authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts to stop the violence and protect rural settlements across Plateau State.
Stay with PHMedia for verified updates on insecurity, persecution, and faith-based news across Nigeria. Share this story and keep Plateau communities in your prayers.
Content Credit: Moyosola Oni
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