The Executive Chairman of Kanam Local Government Council, Hon. Salihu Ayuba Musa, has taken swift action following the tragic attack that occurred in communities along the Garga axis of Kanam Local Government Area, Plateau State.
In the early hours of 14 March 2026, the Chairman responded promptly after receiving confirmed reports of the ambush that took place on 13 March 2026. The attack sadly claimed the lives of some security personnel who were operating from Kanam under the Wase Sector.
Reports further indicate that members of the local vigilante group who were on patrol alongside the security personnel also paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. These brave individuals stood shoulder to shoulder with the security forces in the defence of their communities and the protection of innocent lives.
The joint patrol team was reportedly ambushed by heavily armed attackers near Wanka while moving through Garga, Kyaram, and surrounding communities in Kanam Local Government Area. Following the attack, the assailants allegedly moved into nearby villages where they looted property and rustled cattle.
In response to the unfortunate incident, Hon. Salihu Ayuba Musa immediately convened a stakeholders’ meeting with sons and daughters of Kanam, members of the Executive Council, councillors, and all political appointees of the Local Government Council to deliberate on the situation and chart a collective way forward.
The Chairman also held a meeting with the Emir of Kanam, His Royal Highness Alh. Dr. Muhammad Muazu Muhammad II, at his palace to discuss the security situation and the recent bandits’ attack on communities within the Local Government Area. This was followed by a closed-door meeting with security chiefs of the Local Government Council to assess the situation and strengthen ongoing security measures.
As part of his response, the Chairman visited the Kanam Sub-Sector Command to commiserate with the officers and men of the security forces. He commended them for their courage, professionalism, and resilience in the face of adversity and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their constitutional duty of defending the nation and protecting lives and property.
The Chairman also extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and vigilantes, describing them as heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of peace and security. He prayed that God grants their families the strength, comfort, and fortitude to bear the painful loss.
Hon. Musa assured residents that the perpetrators of this heinous act will not go unpunished, stressing that those responsible will be brought to justice. He further reiterated that the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, remains fully committed to addressing security challenges and will continue to work closely with security agencies to combat criminal activities across the state.
The Chairman also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious activities within their communities. He cautioned residents against allowing themselves to be used by criminal elements for monetary inducements, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding human life and maintaining community peace.
“Security agencies cannot detect crimes that are deliberately concealed,” the Chairman stated. “Security is a collective responsibility. Citizens must remain alert and provide timely and credible information that will assist security agencies in exposing criminal elements and protecting our communities.”
The Kanam Local Government Council remains committed to working closely with security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure lasting peace, stability, and security across the Local Government Area.
Signed,
Ibrahim Yusuf Dembo
Director of Media & Publicity
to the Executive Chairman
Kanam LGC.
15th March 2026
