Tension is rising dangerously across communities in Plateau State as residents of Irigwe Chiefdom in Bassa Local Government Area raise alarm over intelligence reports of alleged impending coordinated attacks ahead of the Easter celebrations and the traditional Zrrechi festival.
Local sources disclosed that several villages, including Zarwa, Tafigana, Kpachudu, and Kpasho, have been placed on high alert following reports that suspected armed groups are mobilising toward vulnerable settlements. The development has sparked fear among residents who say they are determined to avoid what they described as “another Easter of blood.”
According to information gathered by Chronicles Reporters, the latest security scare was triggered late Friday night after locals allegedly sighted a large number of armed men riding motorcycles toward Mararaban Dare, a development that has intensified anxiety across the Irigwe Chiefdom.
Community members, already burdened by a long history of recurring violence, say the suspicious movement of armed individuals has revived painful memories of previous coordinated attacks that often occurred during festive periods and farming seasons.
A youth leader from the chiefdom, who spoke anonymously due to security concerns, confirmed that the threat intelligence has been escalated to relevant authorities. However, he expressed deep frustration over what he described as a lack of immediate intervention and public reassurance from security agencies.
Residents reportedly fear that delayed response from authorities may embolden attackers, leaving vulnerable rural communities exposed. In response to the looming threat, local vigilante groups have been mobilised to intensify night patrols, while residents have been advised to limit unnecessary movement and remain vigilant.
Community leaders have also urged locals to cooperate with informal security networks, share intelligence, and maintain communication as fear spreads across the settlements.
Efforts by SaharaReporters to obtain official confirmation from security agencies reportedly yielded no response. Calls placed to the Public Relations Officer of the Plateau State Police Command were not answered as of the time the report was filed.
The Irigwe Chiefdom and surrounding communities in Bassa LGA have witnessed repeated episodes of violent attacks in recent years, leading to loss of lives, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of residents. These recurring incidents have drawn national concern, with many observers questioning the effectiveness of security architecture in protecting rural communities.
Residents say the timing of the alleged threat, coinciding with Easter celebrations and the traditional Zrrechi festival, has further heightened fears of coordinated violence targeting civilians.
As the festive period approaches, families across the affected communities say they are living in uncertainty, calling on security agencies and government authorities to act swiftly to prevent what they warn could become another tragic chapter in Plateau State’s long-running cycle of violence.
For many residents, the message is clear: they are refusing to witness another Easter marked by bloodshed, displacement, and grief.