The District Head of Gwande in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, Saf Samuel Alaket, has been killed after gunmen attacked his vehicle along the Sha-Daffo road corridor on Tuesday evening.
According to sources within the community, the incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. as the traditional ruler was travelling back to his residence following activities linked to the weekly Daffo market.
Reports indicate that Alaket had earlier participated in a meeting of the traditional council in Bokkos before setting out for Gwande.
Residents said the assailants launched an ambush near the border area separating Sha District from Daffo community, targeting the monarch while he was on the road.
The district head reportedly suffered critical injuries during the attack. He was quickly taken to a nearby medical facility where healthcare workers attempted to save his life.
Despite receiving emergency treatment, he later died from the wounds sustained during the assault.
A community member, Aten Pukat, confirmed the incident and described the monarch’s death as a major tragedy for the people of Gwande and the wider Bokkos area.
Pukat noted that the late district head was highly regarded for his commitment to peacebuilding and efforts aimed at advancing development within his domain.
The killing has reportedly plunged residents and members of the Bokkos Traditional Council into grief, with many expressing shock over the attack.
Sympathy messages have continued to arrive from traditional rulers, community leaders, and well-wishers who have described the late Alaket as a dedicated leader.
Attempts to obtain an official response from the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
