FACT-CHECK: Only 17 Confirmed Dead in Bassa Attack — Security Analyst Zagazola Makama Debunks Inflated Death Toll

Renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, has set the record straight regarding the tragic April 12 militia attack on several communities in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, revealing that only 17 people were confirmed dead—not the exaggerated figures making the rounds.

Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Makama disclosed that intelligence gathered from a multi-agency security task force deployed to maintain peace in the troubled region confirms that 17 corpses have so far been recovered and buried.

This revelation starkly contradicts previously reported figures of 51, 34, 40, and 25 deaths, which have been circulating across various media platforms and social media channels, sparking confusion and outrage among the public.

According to Makama, the troops carried out a thorough clearance operation in the affected villages, meticulously combing through the area for casualties. The operation, backed by reliable intelligence and supported by local community leaders, unearthed a grim but accurate count—17 victims, not more.

“This is not to downplay the tragedy,” Makama stated, “but to ensure that facts are separated from fiction in the public space, especially in a volatile environment where misinformation can inflame tensions and derail peace efforts.”

The update has been corroborated by community leaders in Bassa, who confirmed that 17 victims were buried in solemn ceremonies across the affected communities, urging the media and public to verify figures before dissemination.

Makama, known for his uncompromising stance on factual reporting in conflict zones, emphasized the importance of credible intelligence in shaping national discourse and policy on insecurity, calling on journalists, influencers, and citizens to join the fight against fake news and sensationalism.

As investigations continue and security forces maintain surveillance in the area, the hope is that peace will gradually return to the embattled communities of Bassa—fueled by truth, not panic.