The Executive Chairman of Jos South Local Government, Hon. Silas Patrick Dung, has paid a visit to the affected families and the wider Gyel community to commiserate with them over the attack that left five people dead.
Hon. Silas expressed deep sorrow over the incident, lamenting that anyone could go out in search of daily bread only to fall victim to such senseless violence. He described the visit as a difficult one, offered prayers for divine comfort for the grieving families, and assured residents that the government is working diligently to ensure justice and restore lasting peace in the area. He also appealed to community members to remain vigilant, emphasizing the importance of looking out for one another.
The attack occurred on Tuesday afternoon at a Gyero mining site, when suspected Fulani herdsmen arrived with their cattle and intruded upon the area where young men were busy working. The herdsmen allegedly opened fire without provocation when the youths attempted to engage them peacefully. Four of the victims were miners, while the fifth was tending to his farm at the time of the assault.
Community heads from Tahei and Tanchol welcomed the chairman’s visit, describing it as a timely and meaningful gesture of solidarity. They noted that when tragedy strikes, it is important for leaders to stand with their people, and they expressed gratitude that the chairman had not forgotten them in their time of need. However, they made a passionate plea for help in protecting their communities, the only home they have.
Families of the victims also voiced their appreciation for the chairman’s ongoing efforts to improve security in the area, but they lamented the persistent invasion of farmlands and mining sites by suspected Fulani herdsmen. They made a desperate appeal to the government to do more to safeguard their land and livelihoods.
Christy Pam Makut
Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Jos South Local Government Council.
