On Friday, June 19, a mob carried out a horrific attack on a wedding-bound bus in Plateau State, resulting in the deaths of twelve people, including the groom’s father and younger brother.
The victims were among 31 passengers travelling in an 18-seater bus owned by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU).
The group was en route from the Basawa community in Kaduna State to Pau in Plateau State for a wedding ceremony when the ambush occurred.
Sheikh Suleiman Haruna, Chief Imam of Jamaโatu Izalatil Bidโa Waโikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Mangu, confirmed the fatalities. He also stated that 19 survivors are currently receiving medical care at Mangu General Hospital.
One of the survivors, Ibrahim Umar, shared harrowing details of the attack and the profound loss suffered by the groomโs family. He also praised the swift intervention of soldiers stationed near the scene.
“The father and younger brother of the groom were also killed in the incident. The groomโs uncle was killed too,โ Umar said.
โThe groom is originally from Zaria but lectures at an institution here. While teaching, he met a woman, and they agreed to marry. We were carrying kola nuts and other marriage gifts for the wedding. We explained everything to the attackers, but they refused to listen. “We told them we were strangers from Kaduna State heading for a wedding, but they didnโt believe us. We are all from the same family and community.โ
“The soldiers really helped us. They came to rescue us quickly. If not for their prompt action, the situation would have been far worse,โ he added.
The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the incident and announced that investigations are underway, An official statement is expected soon as authorities work to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyful celebration, leaving the community in mourning.
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