At least nine people were killed in a late-evening gun attack on a popular relaxation spot at Doruwa Babuje community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The assault occurred around 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, plunging the community into mourning.
Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen stormed the spot and opened indiscriminate fire on patrons before escaping into the night.
Two other victims sustained critical gunshot injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.
National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Movement, Rwang Tengwong, described the incident as “tragic and devastating,” expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives in yet another attack on a civilian gathering spot.
Spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Chinonso Oteh, confirmed that troops responded swiftly after receiving a distress call. He stated that investigations are ongoing, security has been reinforced in the area, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.
Plateau State has faced persistent violence from gunmen in recent months, with frequent raids on communities, markets, farms, and social venues despite heavy military deployment.
The latest killings come amid continued national concerns over insecurity in the North-Central region, even after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on national security and ordered increased recruitment into the police and other security agencies.
Photos from the scene show the devastated relaxation spot and grieving community members. Authorities have yet to release an official casualty update or identify the attackers.
