Police, security sources dismiss alleged attack at Plateau burial ceremony

By: Zagazola Makama 

The Plateau State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that gunmen attacked mourners during a burial ceremony in the state, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The command’s position corroborated earlier security reports by counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, which questioned the authenticity of viral videos and claims circulating on social media regarding the incident.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Alfred Alabo, said no attack was recorded during the burial ceremony.

According to him, the event was conducted under strict security supervision, with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), police personnel and other security agencies present throughout the ceremony.

“The claims are grossly exaggerated, inaccurate, and do not reflect the true situation on the ground,” the statement said.

The police added that the burial was carried out peacefully without any external attack as alleged in some reports.

Earlier, Zagazola Makama had also disputed the viral claims, alleging that the video being circulated was misleading and appeared to have been recorded by individuals within the gathering.

According to the report, armed youths suspected to be members of local vigilante groups were seen firing gunshots within the burial ground during the procession, raising concerns over the proliferation of small arms among civilians.

The report questioned how some of the youths gained access to firearms, including pistols and other weapons allegedly seen in the footage.

Security sources said authorities were examining the circumstances surrounding the display and use of weapons at the gathering.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Plateau, CP Bassey Ewah, has reinforced security in the area by deploying additional personnel, including mobile policemen, to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

The police urged the public to disregard unverified reports capable of inciting panic and advised media organisations and social media users to verify sensitive security-related information before dissemination.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.