In a heart-wrenching interview, Sandra’s uncle, Davou Mangu, recounted the tragic story of his niece Sandra, 24, and her husband Barnabas Rwang, 27, who were allegedly shot dead by herders in Plateau State on August 14. The couple, both teachers at BECO Comprehensive High School Kwi in the Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, had only recently married.
Davou Mangu described the couple as deeply in love and excited about building a happy family together. Their deaths came as a devastating blow to their families and community.
The tragic incident occurred at their workplace during a staff meeting, where cows entered the school compound. The school’s security personnel and staff members attempted to persuade the herders to move the cows away. However, the herders opened fire on the staff, suggesting it was a premeditated attack. Sandra was shot first as she tried to escape, and her husband, Barnabas, bravely attempted to save her. Despite his pleas, both were fatally shot.
The community is demanding justice for the slain couple, emphasizing that the security situation must be stabilized to prevent further atrocities. They are calling for the arrest and prosecution of the culprits, regardless of their affiliation, to bring closure to this horrific act and deter future crimes.
Davou Mangu also discussed the importance of justice as a means of addressing the security challenges in Plateau State. He cited the positive impact of the sector commander in Barkin Ladi, who ensured that anyone who committed a crime faced justice, leading to relative calm in the area.
He emphasized that justice must be applied universally, regardless of the party responsible for the crime, to bring about lasting peace and security in the region. The community is hopeful that justice will prevail, bringing an end to the cycle of violence and instability that has plagued the region.