Protest erupts in Plateau over killing of 10 residents

Youths in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State on Monday blocked the major highway linking the area to Jos in protest against the killing of community members by gunmen.

The demonstrators, joined by women and sympathisers, refused to vacate the road despite appeals from authorities, insisting they would remain until those responsible for the attack are arrested and prosecuted.

One of the protesters, Samson Godiya, said the community had endured repeated violence for years and expressed frustration over what he described as inadequate protection by security agencies.

“We have suffered for too long in the hands of attackers. How long will we continue to be killed without decisive action?” he said, adding that residents were tired of assurances from government officials that had yet to yield results.

The death toll from the latest attack rose to 10 after additional bodies were recovered from affected communities on Monday. The assault occurred on Sunday evening and forms part of recurring violence that has displaced residents and caused significant loss of life across the state.

A community leader with the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the recovery of the victims in Jos. He said several people were killed during the attack in villages including Ratatis and Dorowa Babuje, while others sustained serious injuries.

According to him, two more bodies were discovered the following morning, while another resident was reportedly killed in nearby Riyom Local Government Area.

The injured were taken to hospitals for treatment and are currently receiving care.

The protest disrupted movement along the highway, leaving motorists travelling from the Shendam and Langtang axis stranded, while vehicles heading out of Jos were forced to wait for passage.

Some demonstrators told reporters the blockade would continue until justice is served for the victims.