Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen attacked Ancha village of Maingo in Bassa Local government Area of Plateau State killing at least 20 people.
Eyewitnesses say the attack may have been a reprisal following an earlier dispute between themselves and the villagers.
Many others were said to have sustained gunshot wounds, as well as deep cuts from machetes and among the victims, were six children.
The attack comes at a time-Plateau State is said to be enjoying relative peace with concerted efforts towards harmonising various ethnic groups in the state.
Reacting to the incident, Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Anthony Atolagbe asked residents to remain calm as security operatives have swung into action to bring the culprits to book.
Atolagbe during a meeting with the youths on Friday urged them not to take laws into their hands as security operatives are investigating the attack.