A community leader and the Waziri Mushere of Bokkos Local Government Area in Plateau State, Chief Yohana Margif, has decried the continued killing of innocent citizens in his community.
Speaking with journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Margif called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address what he described as genocide against the people, allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen.
He also appealed to the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and other security chiefs to take immediate action to stop the violence.
“I would like to draw the attention of Nigeria’s top leadership to the deteriorating security situation in Plateau, particularly in Mushere Chiefdom of Bokkos LGA,” he said. “I urge President Tinubu to take immediate, decisive steps to halt these endless and senseless killings, protect lives and properties, and secure the future of the Mushere people and other victims of what is clearly a genocide.”
According to Margif, the attacks have intensified during this year’s farming season, forcing many villagers to flee their homes and become internally displaced.
He stressed the need for swift intervention by all stakeholders to prevent further escalation and the destruction of entire communities.
“Since the start of President Tinubu’s administration, Plateau State has experienced an unprecedented wave of violence and killings. Our people live in constant fear of attack and cannot sleep peacefully,” Margif lamented. “Urgent action is required to halt this violence and protect the administration’s credibility.”
In recent days, suspected herdsmen militias have reportedly killed no fewer than 35 people in Hokk, Pangkap, Fokoldep, Kopmur, Margif, Horop, Mbor, Mushere, and Kwahas villages in Mushere Chiefdom.
Kefas Mallai, Chairman of the Bokkos Community Peace Observers, confirmed the killings, including that of 70-year-old Pastor Mimang Lekyil of COCIN LCC Kwakas-Mushere, who was murdered in the church. His wife was also shot and is receiving treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital.
“Bokkos has never been this insecure, with people being slaughtered as we are witnessing now,” said Lilian Madaki, a resident of the Mushere community.
Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina confirmed the incidents and stated that security forces, including police and military personnel, have been deployed to the affected areas.
