Twenty-seven victims of a brutal gunmen attack in Bindi-Jebbu community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, were laid to rest on Friday in a somber mass burial ceremony attended by grieving families, community leaders, and state officials.
The victims, men and women, were killed in the early hours of July 15 when suspected armed Fulani herdsmen stormed the village, leaving several others injured in their sleep.
The wounded were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, while the community has been left reeling from the trauma of the assault.
During the burial, Riyom LGA Chairman, Bature Shuwa, expressed deep sorrow over the rising spate of violence in rural communities across the local council.
“My people of Bindi-Jebu and the greater Riyom community, we are gathered here today in unspeakable grief, hearts heavy with sorrow, to mourn our brothers and sisters; twenty-seven precious lives, cut down in a cruel and senseless act of violence in the early hours of July 15th, 2025,” he said.
“As your Chairman, I stand with you not only in leadership but in deep mourning. I cannot begin to imagine the pain, the silence in your homes, or the weight of these empty spaces left behind.
“To the immediate bereaved families: no words can truly comfort you, but please know that your pain is ours; your loss, a wound in the heart of all of Riyom people. The entire local government mourns with you.”
Shuwa urged the community to remember the victims not just as casualties of violence but as integral members of the society.
“We remember them not just as victims, but as fathers, mothers, children, farmers, neighbours, and friends.
“Let their memories stir in us a renewed commitment to justice, peace, and security. We will not forget. We will not be silent. And we will not rest until our communities are safe.”
He also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his immediate visit to the community after the incident.
“At this moment of great grief, I wish to express our deep and heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his personal and prompt visit to Bindi in the immediate aftermath of the attack. Your presence, Your Excellency, was not only a gesture of compassion but a statement of solidarity that brought comfort to many broken hearts in Riyom. We will not forget the love you have shown us. Indeed, you are truly a father.”
“We also warmly welcome the Plateau state government delegation, who are here with us today. Your presence honours the lives we mourn and reinforces the bond of commitment between the state and our peaceful people.”
He concluded by offering prayers for healing and unity in the community.
“May the God of all comfort wrap His arms around every grieving soul today. May the Bindi-Jebu community rise again in unity, strength, and hope,” he added.
