By Pamson Musa
A pressure group operating under the ageis of Bokkos concerned Youths on Tuesday expressed dismay over incessant targeted attacks and mass murder of communities in Plateau State by terrorists.
The group also alleged that more than 10 communities have been totally sacked and occupied by bandits in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.
Mr Chris Daley, the spokesman of the group, at a news conference in Jos on Tuesday, said for many years, innocent people have been subjected to senseless killings, displacements, and kidnapping of the people by suspected Fulani terrorists.
According to him, so far, more than 61 communities have suffered violent attacks leaving several persons displaced in Bokkos LGA alone.
He gave the names of communities annexed by bandits as Hokk, Nawula, Pangkap, Luwapan, Fokoldep, Dangru, Bodel, Duun, Dulu, among others.
“The frequency and severity of the attacks have left us scared and our communities gripped with anxiety and uncertainty.
“With our naked eyes, we have seen innocent families of ten, nine and more been completely wiped away, leaving thousands of lives lost and properties worth billions destroyed by the activities of this bandits,” he said.
He added that the attacks were premeditated and targeted with the Fulani terriorists clear aim to intimidate, displace and annihilate the farming communities.
“We understand the military’s operational structure and the rules of engagement, we appreciate the dedication of sincere , genuine and honest personnel who have worked tirelessly to handle the challenges that threatens our communities.
“We cannot ignore the actions of corrupt personnel within the military in some communities within Bokkos LGA as ever since these attacks occurred, no single arrest has been made.
The group leader further alleged that some of military personnel chose to aid the armed terrorists, stressing that such betrayal of trust and duty were apprehensable and would not go unpunished.
He appealed to the Federal Government and security operatives to go after the attackers.
“We call on government to empower communities with tools, skills and resources needed to rebuild and recover from this attacks
“We also urge the government to engage with local leaders, civil society, organizations and traditional leaders to identify and address terrorist activities.
“We urge the government to invest in economic development, education and social services in vulnerable communities.
“These investments can help to address the underlying drivers of poverty, inequality and exclusion which can further contribute to radicalization and insecurity,” he said.
