A tragic attack shatters New Year celebrations in Bum community, Chugwi area of Vwang District, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, as at least seven residents lose their lives barely minutes into 2026. The incident throws the community into mourning at a time when many others across the state usher in the New Year with celebrations.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the attack occurs around 11:00 p.m. on December 31, 2025, as residents prepare to welcome the New Year. Local sources say the assailants storm the community unexpectedly, leaving several families devastated and residents in fear.
The Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM) confirms the incident, describing it as a painful and avoidable tragedy. The group says the attack targets innocent and peace-loving residents, disrupting what should have been a moment of joy and reflection. Community members report that the violence spreads panic, forcing many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
In a statement monitored by Mediaplusng.com, the National Publicity Secretary of the BYM, Rwang Tengwong, says the community wakes up to grief instead of celebration. He explains that while many parts of Plateau State welcome the New Year in peace, Bum community records loss and sorrow. He confirms that seven bodies are recovered as of the time of the statement, adding that search and rescue efforts continue.
Tengwong notes that there are growing fears that the casualty figure may rise as security personnel and local volunteers comb nearby areas. He says some residents remain unaccounted for, prompting anxiety among families and community leaders who await updates on their loved ones.
The BYM expresses concern that the attack happens despite prior security alerts warning that some communities in Jos South Local Government Area face possible threats. According to the group, these warnings raise serious questions about preparedness and response, especially during festive periods when communities expect heightened security presence.
“This incident occurs despite earlier alerts that some communities are under threat,” the association says. “Sadly, Bum community now becomes one of the victims of renewed violence in the area.” The group describes the situation as alarming and calls for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives.
Residents of the affected area say the attack deepens long-standing fears about safety in rural communities across Plateau State. They explain that festive seasons, which should bring peace and unity, now come with anxiety due to repeated incidents of violence. Some community members say they spend major celebrations indoors or on alert, unsure of what the night may bring.
Local leaders appeal to the government and security agencies to increase patrols and intelligence gathering in vulnerable areas. They stress that rural communities deserve the same level of protection as urban centres, especially during periods of high movement and celebration.
The BYM also urges authorities to act swiftly to restore calm and reassure residents. The group calls for a thorough investigation to identify those responsible and ensure accountability. It emphasizes that justice and proactive security measures are critical to preventing a cycle of violence that continues to claim innocent lives.
Community members say the emotional impact of the attack is severe, as families struggle to come to terms with sudden loss at the start of a new year. Many residents describe the mood as heavy and uncertain, with prayers replacing celebrations across the community.
Civil society groups and concerned citizens also call for stronger collaboration between security agencies, traditional institutions, and local vigilante groups. They say community-based intelligence, combined with timely response, can help reduce attacks and protect vulnerable populations.
As search and rescue efforts continue, residents of Bum community appeal for humanitarian support and counseling services to help families cope with grief and trauma. They also ask for government presence to reassure displaced residents and support those affected.
The BYM says it will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available. The group insists that urgent and decisive action is needed to stop further violence and restore confidence among residents.
The New Year attack adds to ongoing concerns about insecurity in parts of Plateau State, reinforcing calls for sustained peace-building efforts, improved security coordination, and long-term solutions that address the root causes of recurring violence.
