Date: April 3, 2026 l Reporter: Musa Amed
Fresh violence has erupted in Plateau State, Nigeria, after suspected gunmen launched a deadly attack near the Plateau State Polytechnic, killing at least two people and forcing students to flee in panic.
The incident, which occurred late on April 2, 2026, took place in a community opposite the polytechnic in Heipang area, where armed assailants reportedly stormed the neighborhood at night and opened fire on residents.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers fired sporadically, hitting multiple victims during the assault. At least two people were confirmed dead, while others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The sound of gunfire triggered widespread fear among students of Plateau State Polytechnic, particularly those residing off-campus. Many reportedly fled their hostels and surrounding residences in confusion and panic as the attack unfolded.
Residents described the attack as sudden and terrifying, with the assailants operating for several minutes before escaping the scene without immediate confrontation from security forces. The incident has further heightened tensions in the region, which has witnessed repeated episodes of violence in recent weeks.
Local community leaders and youth representatives have urged residents across affected areas, including Heipang and surrounding districts, to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.
The Plateau State Police Command had yet to release an official statement at the time of reporting, while efforts to reach security authorities for comments were unsuccessful.
The latest attack comes amid a broader pattern of insecurity in Plateau State, where recurring violence linked to armed groups, communal clashes, and criminal activities has continued to claim lives and displace residents. Recent incidents in the state have prompted curfews and increased security presence in some areas.
As fear grips the university community and surrounding neighborhoods, calls are growing for urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed and ensure the safety of students and residents in Plateau State.