By Jordan Walbe.
*_Youth leaders demand urgent security intervention, accountability for security spending, compensation for affected communities and access to ancestral lands_*
Bokkos youths have raised the alarm over what they describe as a worsening security situation in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, citing alleged cases of isolated killings, kidnappings, harassment, destruction of farmlands and displacement of communities.
Addressing journalists in Bokkos in September 2026, the youths said insecurity had subjected residents to persistent fear and hardship, calling on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to take urgent steps to protect lives and property.
According to the group, recent incidents include attacks on Bwele in Foron District and Kawel community in Mushere District, as well as the killing of the Sarkin Baka of Tangur, which they attributed to suspected herders.
The youths said the incidents required urgent attention and greater unity among communities and stakeholders to prevent further attacks.
The group expressed concern that, despite what it described as the Plateau State Government’s announcement of ₦23 billion in security expenditure, residents of Bokkos had yet to see any significant impact.
They alleged that communities in Mushere, Mangor, Daffo, Manguna and other areas had been displaced or rendered inaccessible, leaving residents unable to safely return to or access their ancestral lands.
The youths called for stronger government intervention and improved security presence across vulnerable communities.
They also raised concerns about road insecurity, particularly along the Bledi-Bokkos route.
According to the group, about 30 people have allegedly been kidnapped along the route within the last month, while several others have reportedly lost their lives.
The youths called for immediate security measures to protect commuters and residents using the road.
The group further alleged widespread destruction of farmlands and crops in Danbukur, Fakkos, Danbwash, Manguna, Daffo, Maikatako, Ruboi, Tanti, Ratatat and surrounding communities.
They expressed concern that affected farmers had received little or no compensation or support and urged the government to establish mechanisms to assess losses and support affected households.
The youths also raised concerns about what they described as the alleged desecration and occupation of Kopyal Kampar Ruwi, which they regard as a sacred site of the Ron people.
They alleged that Fulani herders had destroyed parts of the area, occupied large portions of surrounding land, and restricted the ability of local people to farm there.
The youths further alleged that the area was being used as a hideout from which attacks on communities in Bokkos were launched.
They called on the government and security agencies to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action where criminal activity is established.
The group also expressed concern over what it described as reports of communities being sacked, changes in the use of religious sites and continued occupation of lands.
It described these developments as a source of anxiety among residents and called for government intervention to prevent further displacement.
The youths further alleged that farmers continue to face attacks on their farms and that some commercial motorcycle riders and cyclists have been attacked, with their motorcycles or bicycles allegedly taken.
They urged security agencies to investigate these incidents and strengthen protection for farmers and other residents who depend on rural roads and farms for their livelihoods.
The Bokkos youths called on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to:
1. Take immediate and decisive action to protect lives and property across Bokkos Local Government Area.
2. Strengthen community-based intelligence gathering, working with responsible community representatives and youths to identify and report criminal elements operating within and outside affected communities.
3. Address alleged occupation of settlements and strategic locations around NTV and Kopyal Kampar Ruwi, and ensure that residents have safe access to government roads, farmlands, and recognized sacred sites.
4. Conduct a thorough audit of security expenditure, including the reported ₦23 billion allocation, to promote accountability and ensure that security resources are producing measurable results.
5. Provide compensation and humanitarian support** to victims of farmland destruction and communities affected by displacement and insecurity.
The youths said they had remained peaceful despite what they described as persistent killings and kidnappings, but warned that continued insecurity could increase pressure on communities to take measures to protect themselves.
They also warned that, if urgent action is not taken, communities could consider protests, including blocking major roads and restricting access to markets.
The group appealed to the Plateau State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to intervene before the security situation deteriorates further.
“Our people are losing hope. We are dying daily with little or no help. Our only hope now is in God,” the youths said.
They concluded their statement with passages from Psalm 34, including: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
The youths called for immediate action to restore security, protect livelihoods, and enable displaced residents to safely return to their communities.
signed
Bokkos youth leaders
