At least eight people have been confirmed dead and 19 others injured following an attack on an Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria bus carrying 31 passengers in Manjul community, located in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening when the group, who were on their way to attend a wedding ceremony in Qua’anpan Local Government Area, where they missed their way at Kyarang junction and stopped to ask for directions.
One of the survivors, Ibrahim Umar, narrated their ordeal, stating that the attack appeared to be deliberate and coordinated.
How the incident happened
“We were coming from Zaria and heading to Qua’anpan for a friend’s wedding. He teaches in a school in Qua. Our driver mistakenly missed the turn at Kyarang junction,” Umar explained.
“Around 6pm, we stopped in a nearby community to ask for directions. Suddenly, we heard some people say, ‘These are Hausa people, let’s kill them.’ They immediately surrounded our bus and started attacking us with sticks, machetes, and stones. It was brutal. They beat us mercilessly. Eight people died on the spot, and four others are still missing.”
He further added that the driver was the first to be killed, after which the attackers set the bus on fire, burning seven bodies beyond recognition.
“There were 31 of us in the bus, which belongs to ABU Zaria. Right now, 19 of us are receiving treatment at the Mangu General Hospital,” Mr Umar said.
Confirmed the Chairman of Mangu Local Government Council, Mr. Emmanuel Bala
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Mangu Local Government Council, Mr. Emmanuel Bala, described the attack as mistaken identity, caused by existing tensions in the area.
“Following a previous attack in the community, there were reports of possible bandit activity. So the youths in Manjul community were already on high alert. Unfortunately, these innocent travellers who lost their way were mistaken for threats and were attacked by a mob,” Bala explained.
“I personally visited the scene. Eight people were confirmed dead. The injured and the bodies of the deceased were taken to the General Hospital in Mangu.”
He further described the attack as deeply regrettable, especially because the victims were innocent Hausa Muslims who were not involved in the previous crisis.
“Security personnel are already investigating the incident. It is unfortunate that innocent people were attacked and killed simply because of suspicion,” he added.
Public Response and Media Coverage
The story spread quickly online.
On social media, the hashtag #JusticeForABUBusVictims began trending. Nigerians demanded answers.
“How do 31 people get attacked just for asking directions?”
“We are not safe anywhere not even for weddings.”
“Mob violence must end. Enough is enough.”
Major newspapers like The Punch, Daily Trust, and Premium Times published eyewitness reports and survivor interviews.
Activists and student unions called for thorough investigations.
Security Forces Take Action
By Saturday morning, the Plateau State Police Command deployed additional officers to Mangu LGA.
Police spokesperson DSP Alabo Alfred confirmed that several suspects had been identified.
“We are working with local vigilante groups and community leaders. The perpetrators will be brought to justice.”
The Military Task Force (Operation Safe Haven) also stepped in, conducting security patrols along volatile routes.
Eyewitnesses said peace was gradually returning to the area by Sunday.
Plateau State Government’s Statement
Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the incident, calling it “a sad day for Plateau.”
“We must rise above fear and hate. What happened in Mangu was tragic and unnecessary.”
The governor promised compensation for victims and ordered an independent panel to probe the attack.
“This government will not tolerate mob justice. We will hold those responsible accountable.”
