Table of Contents
Escalating Violence in Plateau State: A Crisis Beyond Conflict
Solomon Dalung, who previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Youth and Sports, has issued a grave warning regarding the intensifying violence in Plateau State. He asserts that the ongoing turmoil transcends mere conflict, describing it as an orchestrated genocide targeting indigenous populations.
Systematic Attacks and Forced Displacements
Dalung highlights a disturbing pattern of coordinated assaults, mass displacements, and targeted killings that suggest a deliberate campaign to eradicate native communities and seize their lands. He emphasizes that these are not random acts of violence but part of a calculated strategy.
Government’s Silence and Its Consequences
The former minister sharply criticizes the federal government and security agencies for their apparent inaction. He points out that the lack of decisive intervention has emboldened armed factions to occupy villages and displace residents with impunity. This silence, he warns, sends a dangerous message of abandonment to the affected populations.
From Political Disputes to Organized Criminality
Tracing the roots of the crisis, Dalung explains that what began as political disagreements has escalated into ethnic and religious tensions, eventually morphing into organized criminal activities. He stresses that the current phase represents a deliberate attempt to eliminate ethnic groups and appropriate their territories.
Alarming Statistics and Urgent Calls for Action
Referencing statements from Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Dalung reveals that over 64 communities have been overtaken by armed groups. This alarming figure underscores the scale and severity of the crisis. Without prompt and effective government response, Dalung warns that the demographic landscape of Plateau State could be irreversibly transformed.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Immediate Intervention
Experts and human rights organizations have echoed similar concerns, noting that the violence in Plateau State reflects broader national security challenges. According to recent reports, Nigeria has witnessed a 15% increase in communal violence incidents in the past year alone, underscoring the urgency for comprehensive peacebuilding measures.
Dalung’s call to action serves as a stark reminder that addressing the root causes of such violence requires not only security operations but also inclusive dialogue and sustainable development initiatives to restore trust and stability in affected regions.
