In the wake of relentless attacks across Plateau State, youth leaders from the worst-hit areas—Riyom, Bokkos, and Mangu LGAs—have issued a unified outcry, condemning what they describe as systemic failure to protect lives and property amid a spate of unprovoked assaults by suspected Fulani militias.
Within a span of just three months, over 300 lives have been lost, thousands injured, and more than 50,000 persons displaced—rendered homeless in their own state. Properties worth billions of naira have been destroyed, while communities have been sacked and turned into ghost towns.
With palpable anger and frustration, youth leaders have declared that enough is enough, stating that the people are no longer willing to watch idly while their communities are overrun and their loved ones murdered.
“We’re Tired of Burying Our Own” – Riyom Youth Leader
Comrade Dauda Dung, Youth Leader in Riyom LGA, decried the consistent inaction by security agencies:
“We are tired of burying our young ones. Just this Friday, 27 persons were buried after an attack in Jebbu Bindi. As always, the government and military made promises—yet no arrests. Are we to wait until we are completely wiped out? The government must act now.”
“The Killers Are Not Spirits” – Berom Youth President
Barrister Solomon Dalyop, President of the Berom Youth Moulders, called out the complicity and alleged collusion of powerful figures:
> “These attacks follow a pattern. The perpetrators are known, and they have sponsors—people in government. The military failed to act even as the Jebbu Bindi massacre happened near their outpost. We demand an end to lip service. Identify, arrest, and prosecute these criminals and their backers.”
He further lamented the lack of political will:
“The attackers move with impunity, armed with sophisticated weapons. Where do they get them? Who permits them? The system is compromised.”
“We’re Not Allowed to Defend Ourselves” – Mangu Youths Lament
Comrade Inusa Pankyes, speaking on behalf of youths in Mangu LGA, bemoaned the paradox of state response:
“While the Fulani militants roam free with high-grade weapons, our own attempts to form vigilante groups are met with clampdowns. We carry bows and arrows, yet we are arrested. Meanwhile, attackers kill with AK-47s and face no consequences.”
> “The endless peace talks have achieved nothing. We refuse to continue sitting at the same table with people enabling our destruction. Justice must precede any form of dialogue.”
“They Want Our Lands – We’ll Resist” – Bokkos Youth Leader
For the youths of Bokkos, the motive behind the violence is land seizure. Micah Joshua, their leader, said the situation has degenerated into silent conquest:
> “They’ve openly declared their aim—occupation. Some communities are already treated like conquered territories. The government, despite having the power, is unwilling to act. But we, the youths, will no longer sit back and watch. If government won’t stop them, we will.”
A Cry for Urgent Intervention
Across all affected areas, a common thread runs through: betrayal by the state, breakdown of trust in security institutions, and a boiling point among a generation of young Nigerians forced to dig graves instead of building futures.
The call to action is unequivocal: the Nigerian government must prioritise security, prosecute culprits, and restore hope to thousands languishing in displacement. The time for condolences is over. The time for decisive action is now.
