Nine people killed by Fulani terrorists in Riyom were my family members – Rev Dachomo
Local Church Leader Confirms Victims of Recent Attack Were Family Members
BARIK LADI, Plateau State — Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) for the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, confirmed that all nine victims of a recent attack in the Kum Community were his relatives. The assault, attributed to Fulani terrorists, occurred overnight on Saturday in the neighboring Riyom Local Government Area.
During a mass burial held on Monday, Dachomo expressed his sorrow, noting that this incident is not the first time his family has been targeted by extremists. He recounted past traumas, including the killing of his grandmother, who he said was brutally attacked, and another uncle who suffered similar violence.
“This is another painful instance for my family. Once again, I am here to mourn the loss of my own blood,” Rev. Dachomo stated. “Kum is my second home, a place where I have deep personal ties.”
He emphasized his feelings of personal loss, referring to the victims as his family members, including uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, and nieces. “These same people killed my grandmother and have now targeted my family again,” he said, noting his efforts to raise awareness about the ongoing violence in the region.
A report by Rev. Nehemiah Mutfwang, based on field assessments by volunteer Barnabas Tok, identified the victims as members of the James family. They included Celina James (38), Yohanna James (21), Janet Yohanna (18), Jenifer Yohanna (3 months), Sele James (18), Melody James (16), Rito James (10), Endurance James (8), and Peace James (3).
The report also noted that the only known survivor, Pam Yohanna, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical care.
The assault has reignited discussions surrounding the need for enhanced security measures, accountability for perpetrators, and sustained support for affected families and individuals.
