Plateau Youths Block Jos Highway in Protest Over Killing of 10 Community Members
Youths in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State took to the streets on Monday, February 23, blocking the major highway leading to Jos in a powerful demonstration of grief and anger. This protest was sparked by a deadly attack on Sunday, February 22, when gunmen targeted their community, resulting in the tragic loss of lives.
Highway Blockade and Vow to Remain
The protesters refused all pleas to vacate the road, standing firm in their demand for justice. They have vowed to maintain the blockade until the perpetrators of the attack are apprehended, highlighting a deep-seated frustration with ongoing security challenges in the region.
One of the protesters, Samson Godiya, expressed the community's anguish, stating, "We have suffered as a community for too long in the hands of these attackers whom we know to be Fulani herdsmen. For how long shall we continue to be killed without anything being done to stop them?"
Community Outcry Over Security Failures
Godiya further lamented the perceived inaction by authorities, saying, "We cannot continue like this. We are tired of promises by the government and security agents to protect us. If they cannot live up to their promises, they should leave us alone. A situation where the security people will be there and at the same time cannot stop the killers from having their way is what we cannot understand."
This sentiment underscores a broader crisis of trust between the community and security forces, with residents feeling abandoned in the face of repeated violence.
Rising Death Toll and Recovery of Bodies
Initially, reports indicated that seven people were killed in the Sunday evening attack, with graphic photos of the victims' bodies arranged on the floor circulating online. However, the death toll has since risen to 10, following the recovery of additional bodies from affected communities in Barkin Ladi on Monday.
A community leader with the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the recovery of these bodies, adding to the somber reality of the incident. The attack, which occurred in Barkin Ladi LGA, has left the community in mourning and sparked urgent calls for intervention.
The protest serves as a stark reminder of the escalating violence in Plateau State and the desperate pleas for safety and justice from its residents.
