By Palang Paul
At least seven Christians were killed in fresh attack at Nding Susut community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, deepening a cycle of bloodshed that has turned everyday life into a struggle for survival in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
The latest killings, which began late Tuesday night of 5th May 2026 reflect a broader pattern of recurring attacks that have plagued parts of Plateau State for years. Around 9 p.m., Fulani Ethnic Militias [FEM] opened fire on residents gathered outside their homes, leaving multiple people dead, including five members of the same family.
Survivors say the attackers struck without warning, targeting civilians in their homes.
A resident, Weng Christopher, described the attack as a night of chaos and loss.
“This is becoming too frequent. People are living in constant fear,” he said.
By Wednesday the 6th of May 2026, grief had turned into renewed panic. Reports from locals indicate that mourners gathered to bury victims were again thrown into fear amid fresh threats of violence, forcing many to flee for their lives. After Killing 7 people last night, Fulani Militias attacked Berom mourners while burying the remains of their loved once in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State.
Community leaders say the attacks are part of a troubling pattern across Barkin Ladi and neighbouring Riyom, where rural settlements have faced repeated attacks.
Rwang Tengwong of the Berom Youth Moulders confirmed the casualties and condemned the killings, calling for urgent and decisive security intervention.
On the same night, an attempted attack on Rim community in Riyom Local Government Area was repelled by vigilantes and Operation Rainbow personnel, preventing further casualties.
In an official response, the Plateau State Police Command confirmed the Nding Susut attack, putting the death toll at five, including women and a child, with several others injured and receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, condemned the attack and announced the deployment of additional tactical teams to restore order, promising that perpetrators would be brought to justice.
However, residents say such assurances have become a daily routine, with little or no visible change on the ground.
Despite repeated deployments and condemnations, attacks continue to occur with alarming frequency, leaving communities exposed and distrustful of official responses.
For many in Barkin Ladi, the reality is stark: nights are no longer for rest, but for vigilance. Families now live with the constant fear that the next attack could come without warning and without protection.
Palang Paul reports on Security and Conflicts for The Nigeria Times.
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