Gunmen Attack Nasarawa Villages, Kill 9, Leave 6 Missing as Tension Mounts

At least nine people have been confirmed dead, while six others remain missing, following a violent attack by unidentified gunmen on Nindama village in the Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The incident, which occurred between 7 and 8 p.m. on Friday, October 10, threw the quiet farming community into chaos as the attackers invaded the area, shooting sporadically. Eight residents were reportedly killed on the spot, while another victim later succumbed to injuries sustained during the assault.

Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, have since launched a coordinated manhunt for the assailants and intensified efforts to rescue the missing persons.

The Executive Chairman of Kokona Local Government Area, Hon. Agbawu M. Agbawu, who led a joint security delegation to the affected community, disclosed that preliminary findings suggest the attack may have been connected to a lingering land dispute in the area.

> “We are working closely with security agencies to restore calm and ensure those behind this wicked act are brought to justice,” Agbawu stated.

Tension remains high in Nindama and adjoining communities as residents fear possible reprisal attacks. Local authorities have urged the people to remain calm and cooperate with security forces in their ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, the Tiv Youth Organisation (TYO) has condemned the brutal killing of Miss Favour Akaaza, a young woman from Imon community in Obi Local Government Area.

Miss Akaaza was reportedly abducted from her residence at Ombi Anzaku along Kwandere Road before being murdered by suspected armed men. Security operatives have since apprehended the suspects, who reportedly confessed to the crime.

Describing the act as “barbaric and inhuman,” TYO called on security agencies to ensure that justice is swiftly served, warning that such atrocities threaten the peace and unity of Nasarawa State.

“We cannot allow the lives of innocent citizens to be cut short without consequence. Justice must prevail,” the group stated.

Authorities continue to appeal for calm as investigations into both incidents progress.