Gunmen Fatally Shoot Traditional Ruler in Taraba State

Gunmen Fatally Shoot Third-Class Chief in Taraba State Hours Before Cultural Festival

Tragedy struck Sensani Village in the Gasol Local Government Area of Taraba State as unknown gunmen ambushed and killed Abdulmutalib Nuhu, a third-class chief. The incident occurred just hours before the commencement of the Nwonyo Fishing and Cultural Festival organized by the Taraba State Government in the Ibbi Local Government Area.

Reports indicate that the assailants struck the village around 9 pm, targeting the palace of the traditional ruler, located a few kilometers from Ibbi, where the festival was scheduled to take place. Nuhu Sanseni, the slain chief’s older brother, recounted that the gunmen arrived on motorcycles, fatally shot his brother, and fled with his mobile phones. Additionally, they encountered a young man riding a motorcycle whom they also shot, leaving him with a broken leg.

The timing of the incident, just before a significant cultural event, has raised concerns about security in the region, particularly given the recent release of Hamisu Bala, also known as Wadume, a convicted gun runner from the nearby town of Ibbi.

While the Taraba State Government has assured attendees of adequate security during the festival, law enforcement authorities are actively pursuing the perpetrators. A senior police officer confirmed that investigations are underway, with officers already on the trail of the assailants.

When contacted, the Acting Police Public Relations Officer for the Taraba State Police Command, ASP James Lashen, stated that he was en route to the office and would provide updates once available.