The Mwaghavul Youth Movement (MYM) has buried its Mangu-Halle District Secretary, Comr. Fwangshak Dawuk, amid tears and grief, as the Movement rejected allegations that he was a militia member and called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Fwangshak was reportedly killed on August 9, 2026, at Jakatai during a military operation according to the Movement.
Speaking at his burial, MYM National President, Comr. Kyesmang Jonathan Yusuf, rejected reports alleging that the deceased was a militia member, describing him instead as a youth leader who was performing community security responsibilities.
The tragedy has taken an even more painful dimension for the family Dawuk left behind. Family sources said the deceased got married in December 2025, barely eight months before his death, and left behind his young wife who is currently pregnant.
For the family, what should have been a season of building a young home and preparing to welcome a new life has instead become a period of mourning. His pregnant wife is now left to face the loss of her husband barely eight months after their marriage.
Kyesmang described Dawuk’s death as a painful loss not only to his family but also to the Mwaghavul Youth Movement and the wider community. He called for a transparent, independent and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and determine responsibility.
The MYM President also raised concerns over fresh attacks in Mwaghavul communities. He said 20-year-old Moses Emmanuel Panse was reportedly killed at Murish in Bwai District on August 12, while 38 houses were reportedly burnt and farmlands and crops destroyed at Jwak Maitumbi in Mangu District on the same day.
According to him, the incidents have compounded the grief of communities already facing insecurity, while the destruction of homes and farmlands threatens the livelihoods and food security of affected families.
The Movement also expressed concern over what it described as disproportionate attention to allegations surrounding the deaths of two persons identified as Fulani herders, arguing that attacks, killings and destruction affecting indigenous communities should receive equal attention and thorough investigation.
It called on the Federal Government, Plateau State Government, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to investigate the reported killings and destruction, establish the facts surrounding the incidents and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
The MYM further demanded stronger security presence, improved intelligence and early-warning mechanisms in vulnerable communities, as well as the protection of homes, places of worship and farmlands.
Kyesmang acknowledged that security personnel had, on some occasions, prevented further loss of life, but stressed that security operations must remain professional, impartial and focused on protecting all citizens without ethnic, political or religious bias.
As mourners gathered to honour Dawuk, Kyesmang described him as a brother, husband, father, colleague and community leader whose commitment to service would not be forgotten. He expressed particular concern for the deceased’s pregnant wife and family, assuring them that the Movement would continue to stand with them.
The burial was attended by government officials, traditional and community leaders, political representatives and other sympathisers, including Hon. Appollos Samchi, General Manager of Plateau Water Services Corporation; Hon. Samson Langkuk, Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government; Hon. Eldad Mangsok, Councillor representing Mangu-Halle Ward; and Chief Riintong Pius, CEO of Naamunu Skin Care.
The MYM President also appreciated the presence and support of the Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Mwolpun, the Mishkaham Mangu-Halle District, Da Appolos Parmak, Da Moses Dawop, community leaders, political stakeholders and members of the Movement.
He urged Mwaghavul youths to remain united, peaceful and law-abiding while pursuing justice through legitimate channels and supporting lawful security efforts.
“Comr. Fwangshak may have departed from us, but his innocent blood and the footprints he left through his service will remain,” Kyesmang said, stressing that the late secretary’s contributions to the Movement and his community would continue to be remembered.
The Movement said it remained committed to peace but maintained that peace should not mean silence in the face of killings, destruction of homes and farmlands or the loss of community leaders.
It appealed to Mwaghavul youths to remain vigilant and disciplined, while urging the government to prioritise truth, justice and effective security measures capable of protecting every innocent citizen equally.
