Plateau okada rider killed, mutilated body found in Shendam

A commercial motorcycle rider has been killed in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State, with residents saying his mutilated body was found along Longvel Road on Monday morning.

The rider's motorcycle was reportedly taken by his attackers. His identity was yet to be ascertained as of press time.

Residents gave slightly different locations for where the body was found. Vanguard and Punch said it was along Longvel Road, while Leadership reported it was near Longvel Bridge. All three accounts agree the killing happened in Shendam and that the motorcycle was stolen.

Henry Homsuk, a resident of the community, told journalists that people woke up to the news on Monday. "It is sad that someone would be killed and his motorcycle carted away," he said, adding that the matter had been reported to security operatives.

Another resident, Grace Longs, said she knew the victim and described him as hardworking and humble. She said he was struggling to feed his family with his motorcycle, and called on the government not to let his death go unpunished.

Riders and farmers afraid

Dabang Joseph, a youth leader in the area, said the killing had spread fear among okada riders and farmers who use the road. He said Longvel Road has become dangerous, especially in the evening, and that riders are attacked there almost every week.

He asked security agencies and the local government chairman to set up checkpoints and patrols on the road.

Residents also called for stronger security in other communities around Shendam, saying people should be able to go about their lawful business without fear.

The Plateau State Police Command has not spoken on the case. Its spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, did not respond to inquiries from Punch, and efforts to reach the police for confirmation were unsuccessful, according to Vanguard and Leadership. No official statement had been issued as of press time.

The motive for the killing is not known, and police have not named any suspect.

What happens next

Residents are waiting for the police to confirm the killing, say what they have found and announce whether anyone has been arrested. The calls for patrols on Longvel Road will also test how quickly security agencies respond in the area.