Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Suspected gunmen have killed a former councillor in the Rim Community of Riyom Local Government Area in Plateau State, in an attack that has left residents in shock and renewed calls for improved security across the state's vulnerable rural areas. The victim, Daniel Danjuma Chong, popularly known as “Hon. Star,” who served as the councillor representing Rim Ward, was killed on the night of Sunday, August 2, 2026, when armed assailants invaded the community at approximately 10:45 p.m. and opened fire.
According to a statement issued by the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), the attackers stormed Torok village in the Rim Community in large numbers, firing sporadically before fleeing the scene. The group alleged that the gunmen came from Kess, an area popularly known as Bangai-Fulani, suggesting a possible connection to the long-running farmer-herder conflicts that have plagued the region. The BYM, under the leadership of its National President, Barr. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as unacceptable and another disturbing assault on innocent residents of Riyom Local Government Area.
During the attack, another resident, Mr. David Dachollom Danjuma, sustained a fatal gunshot injury and was receiving treatment, according to local sources. A resident of the community, Mrs. Cynitha Dung, told journalists that the incident threw the entire community into panic as residents fled for safety after hearing sustained gunfire. “We heard heavy gunshots late in the night. Everyone ran for safety. By the time people came out, Hon. Daniel had been shot. It was a terrifying experience, and the community is still in shock,” she said.
The BYM called on security agencies and the Plateau State Government to launch an immediate manhunt for the perpetrators and strengthen security across vulnerable communities. The group also urged authorities to dismantle criminal hideouts allegedly operating within the area and reiterated its call for a ban on open grazing, arguing that the practice had been exploited by criminal elements. “The continuous killing of innocent citizens is unacceptable. Those responsible must face justice,” the association stated in its release.
As of the time of this report, the Plateau State Police Command had not officially commented on the incident. However, the killing of the former councillor has added to the growing list of violent attacks in Plateau State, where communities have repeatedly suffered from clashes linked to farmer-herder conflicts, communal tensions, and criminal activities. The BYM extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and the people of Torok Community, while wishing the injured victim a speedy recovery. The group urged the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice and that sustained security efforts are maintained in the area and across the state.
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