A Nigerian soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Yusuf Zakari, has been killed during a military operation to repel a suspected attack by armed Fulani terrorists on Manja community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred on Saturday when the attackers reportedly attempted to advance towards Manja village, a community bordering Bokkos Local Government Area.
Troops from Sector 9 of Operation Enduring Peace were swiftly deployed to prevent the assailants from moving through the expansive Manja Forest into the community.
The operation led to an intense exchange of gunfire between the soldiers and the suspected terrorists. During the confrontation, Lance Corporal Zakari sustained fatal gunshot wounds and died in the line of duty.
The military operation successfully confronted the attackers, although details on casualties among the suspected terrorists were not immediately available.
A security personnel who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Zakari was killed in action after troops deployed as a blocking force came under heavy gunfire from the armed terrorists.
“The troops were positioned to stop the attackers from infiltrating Manja community that has witnessed repeated security threats resulting from herder-farmer crises in recent months,” he said.
He stated that at about 1:25 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, the troops made contact with the advancing Fulani bandits, triggering a prolonged and intense exchange of fire.
“Despite putting up a determined resistance, Lance Corporal Zakari was ambushed during the battle and was fatally wounded while defending his comrades and the civilian population.
After killing him, the attackers seized the deceased soldier’s personal weapon before withdrawing from the scene,” he added.
Also confirming the incident, Jos-based conflict-journalist, Masara Kim Usman wrote on his Facebook page on Sunday
“Yesterday around 1:30 p.m., armed terrorists stormed Manja village in Chakfem District, Mangu LGA, Plateau State, while believers were still in church. They opened fire indiscriminately and burned homes.
“Thanks to a swift military response, many civilians were evacuated to safety. Tragically, one soldier paid the supreme price defending the community.
“This marks yet another assault on Christian communities in Plateau State — over 50 lives have been lost since June 1 alone. Many of these attacks happen in remote villages and are rarely reported, but together they paint a disturbing picture.
“Please pray for the people of Manja, for the families affected, and for lasting peace in Plateau State.”
