Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen have invaded Peigyim village, near Kibori, in the Atyap Chiefdom of Zango-Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing at least 12 people.
The latest attack came less than 24 hours after the murder of an ECWA Church Pastor, Rev. Silas Yakubu Ali, in the same council earlier on Saturday.
The attackers were said invaded the area during a heavy downpour on Sunday evening.
The Kaduna State police command has not reacted to the fresh killings but the Southern Kaduna People's Union, SOKAPU's Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, confirmed the attack.
His words, “It is very true. They also killed another man in Atakshusho village about three kilometres from the initial scene of crime as they were retreating to make an escape.
“That will bring to 13 those killed in Atyap land, in Zangon Kataf LGA in the past 24 hours. As usual, no one has been apprehended. We are awaiting details of the killings after which we shall issue a statement later today.”
Earlier on Saturday, some herdsmen were said to have murdered one Pastor Silas Yakubu Ali. Ali was allegedly macheted to death by his assailants.
According to sources, “They (attackers) came while it was raining and divided themselves into groups. They targetted specific houses and left soon after accomplishing their assignments.
“Scores of the villagers are missing at the moment.
"It’s not possible for one to ascertain the number of those injured and even those killed, but so far, l have counted and found 11 dead bodies in different locations this (Monday) morning.”
Kaduna confirms killings
Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government has said that no fewer than 12 persons were killed while two persons were injured during the attack on Peigyim village, near Kibori, Atyap Chiefdom.
State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, who spoke said those injured by the assailants were currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital.
Aruwan gave the names of those killed as Philbia Ysuaf, Suzanna Ezekiel, Rahib Alex, Ishaku Bamaiyi, Deborah Ishaku and Tinat Bamaiyi.
According to him, others included: Zichat Kefas, Sunday Daniel, Hauwa Gabriel, Fedelia Famson, Sadia Donald and Goodness Kefas.
